Top 5 things you need to know about today’s geomagnetic storm
- A significant geomagnetic storm is hitting Earth right now, triggered by a massive solar flare that erupted from the sun early this morning. Experts at NOAA’s Space Weather Prediction Center have issued a G3-level alert, meaning it could cause intense auroras visible as far south as California and New York.
- The storm is currently disrupting high-frequency radio communications and GPS signals, particularly affecting aviation and shipping routes in polar regions. Some flights have already reported temporary blackouts, and airlines are rerouting planes to avoid the worst of the interference.
- This is not a repeat of the “internet apocalypse” scenario—power grids are at low risk, though operators are on standby. The last G5 event in 2024 caused localized blackouts in Sweden, but today’s storm is weaker and mostly impacts satellite operations.
- For skywatchers, the real treat comes overnight Thursday into Friday. If the skies are clear, head away from city lights and look north or south (depending on your hemisphere) for brilliant red, green, and purple curtains—the aurora borealis or australis. Use a smartphone camera to capture colors invisible to the naked eye.
- To stay safe, avoid lengthy use of GPS for critical navigation over the next 24 hours, and keep backup maps handy. Satellite TV and internet may stutter, so download your entertainment in advance. This isn’t panic time—but it’s a spectacular space weather event you won’t want to miss.