Massive solar storms set to hit Earth, potential disruptions await
PTC News Desk: Nasa has issued a prediction that two significant solar storms are set to hit Earth today, with the potential to cause disruptions in various aspects of life. Scientists anticipate that these storms will impact our planet around 5:30 pm, influencing its magnetic field and potentially creating awe-inspiring auroras visible from different parts of the world.
However, there are concerns that in severe cases and at higher latitudes, the ionized particles could disrupt power grids, communication infrastructure, and satellite systems, including the global positioning system.
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According to Space Weather physicist Tamitha Skov, the solar storms, also known as Coronal Mass Ejections (CMEs), are partly directed towards Earth. The second storm is expected to catch up to the first, resulting in a combined impact referred to as a "1,2-punch."
Model predictions suggest that the storms are likely to hit on July 7, coinciding with NASA's forecast of an impact before noon UTC (5:30 pm IST time). The first storm is slower and expected to go primarily northeast, while the second storm is faster and expected to have a more direct hit.
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Solar storms occur when the Sun releases solar material, including Coronal Mass Ejections (CMEs), which are large expulsions of plasma and magnetic fields from the Sun's corona. When these solar materials reach Earth's magnetic environment, they can trigger geomagnetic storms.
In extreme cases, such storms have the potential to disrupt Earth's technology. However, specific warnings regarding the potential impact of these storms have not been released.
Our #Sun celebrates #July4 with its own special fireworks! We have two partly Earth-directed #solarstorms (aka CMEs) on their way. The second storm will catch up to the first giving us a 1,2-punch. Model predictions show impact likely July 7. I'll post NASA model runs next. pic.twitter.com/gtJwgcYS4Z — Dr. Tamitha Skov (@TamithaSkov) July 5, 2023
Past instances of solar storms causing disruptions serve as reminders of their potential impact. In 1989, a powerful solar storm led to electrical blackouts across Quebec, lasting for 12 hours. The most intense recorded solar storm, known as the Carrington Event in 1859, caused fires at telegraph stations and disrupted communication systems, preventing messages from being sent.
The anticipation of two massive solar storms approaching Earth raises concerns about potential disruptions in various domains. While the predicted impact includes the formation of beautiful auroras visible globally, there is a possibility of adverse effects on power grids, communication infrastructure, and satellite systems.
As we await the arrival of these solar storms, scientists continue to monitor their progression and assess the potential impact they may have on our planet.
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- With inputs from agencies
