Geomagnetic Storm Disrupts Power Grids and Satellite Communications Across Northern Hemisphere
WASHINGTON, D.C. — A severe geomagnetic storm, triggered by a coronal mass ejection from the Sun, impacted Earth on Wednesday, 22 October 2024, causing significant disruptions to power grids and satellite communications across the Northern Hemisphere. The event, classified as a G4-level storm by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration's Space Weather Prediction Center, began at approximately 14:00 UTC and intensified over the following hours. According to officials, the storm generated powerful electrical currents in the upper atmosphere, leading to voltage irregularities in power transmission systems in Canada, Scandinavia, and parts of the northern United States. Satellite operators reported temporary outages in GPS navigation and high-frequency radio communications, affecting aviation and emergency services. Authorities urged the public to remain vigilant, though no widespread blackouts have been confirmed. The geomagnetic storm is expected to subside by Thursday, with agencies monitoring for potential aftereffects on critical infrastructure.