Brace Yourself: Solar Tempest to Test Power Resilience Amid Hurricanes

A severe solar storm is predicted to hit Earth, threatening to disrupt power grids as the US grapples with consecutive hurricanes. NOAA has issued alerts to power and space operators and FEMA, while the storm might also trigger visible auroras. However, its impact remains uncertain.

As the US faces the challenges of back-to-back hurricanes, another formidable natural event is looming—a severe solar storm. Forecasted to arrive this week, the storm poses a potential threat to power grids, according to space weather experts.

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) has issued a geomagnetic storm watch, advising operators of power stations and spacecraft to brace for possible disruptions. Alerts have also been sent to the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), already dealing with the aftermath of Hurricane Helene and gearing up for Hurricane Milton.

The solar storm, while not expected to match the intensity of May's record-setting storm, could cause disruptions if it grows stronger. NOAA forecasters are closely monitoring the situation and have noted the potential for spectacular auroras as far south as the lower Midwest and Northern California. Meanwhile, the storm emphasizes the sun's activity as it nears the peak of its cycle.

(With inputs from agencies.)