EXPERTS are warning Americans about a possible geomagnetic storm that could disrupt power across the country.
The massive solar eruption may affect power grids, satellites, and communication issues across the US.
NOAA’s Space Weather Prediction Center issued the alert early Wednesday, citing vigorous geomagnetic activity that’s expected to continue through Thursday.
Geomagnetic storms are caused by solar particles interacting with the Earth’s magnetic field.
When the particles interact, the forces can generate additional electrical charge through power lines and pipelines.
The bolt of electricity can cause brief voltage fluctuations.
The storms are the result of a powerful solar flare that occurred on November 30, according to the Daily Mail.
The solar flare led to a coronal mass ejection headed towards Earth at 1.4 million miles per hour.
The strongest currents are expected to hit the Upper Midwest and into the Northeast, according to the Space Weather Prediction Center.
Not only will the geomagnetic storms impact power grids, but Americans will also have the rare chance to witness the Northern Lights, also called the Aurora Borealis.
Those in Washington, Idaho, Montana, Wyoming, the Dakotas, Minnesota, Wisconsin, and Michigan will be able to see the lights fill the night sky.
Even those living on the East Coast in Vermont, New York, New Hampshire, and Maine will have the chance to see the aurora.
Source : https://www.the-sun.com/tech/15586947/solar-flare-sun-eruption-geomagnetic-storm/