A solar storm is known as an intense flow of energy and particles that spreads into space as a result of large explosions and magnetic events occurring on the surface of the Sun. These storms occur due to strong magnetic field changes that often occur in sunspot regions on the Sun.
But now the Earth appears to be facing another severe solar storm.
This event occurs as the Sun’s 11-year cycle approaches its peak. As you may remember, in May the Earth was exposed to the strongest geomagnetic storms of the last 20 years. These storms created visible effects even in regions far from the poles, causing colorful images to appear in the sky.
A G4 LEVEL STORM IS EXPECTED
Coronal mass ejection (CME), ejected from the Sun and moving towards Earth at 4 million kilometers per hour, can cause a severe geomagnetic storm. According to TRT Haber, authorities issued a storm warning at G4 level. This level is just below G5, the highest storm level. However, the full intensity of the storm will become clear at the time of impact.
According to the current expectation statement made by Shawn Dahl from the US National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) Space Weather Prediction Center, the storm will show its effect in the morning or noon in the Eastern Time Zone and may last until the next day.
POWER GRIDS AND SATELLITES ARE IN DANGER
Geomagnetic storms occur when CMEs hit the Earth’s magnetic field. These storms can cause disruptions in satellites and GPS systems in Earth orbit and interruptions in radio signals. It is stated that malfunctions may also occur in electrical networks.
WHERE AND HOW CAN AURORAS BE WATCHED?
Authorities recommend that those who want to witness these extraordinary auroras watch the sky in dark areas, away from city lights. Additionally, digital cameras and smartphones can be helpful in capturing aurorae that are invisible to the naked eye.
These fascinating images that will appear in the sky seem to present a visual feast as well as technological risks.
WHAT IS AURORA?
Aurora is a natural light show that occurs in the upper atmosphere in the polar regions. It is known as “Aurora Borealis” (Northern Lights) in the Northern Hemisphere and “Aurora Australis” (Southern Lights) in the Southern Hemisphere. These lights are often seen in shades of green, red, purple and blue and provide stunning sights illuminating the sky at night.
Auroras occur as a result of high-energy particles (solar winds) coming from the Sun interacting with the Earth’s magnetic field. These particles from the Sun are directed towards the poles by the Earth’s magnetic field and collide with gas molecules in the atmosphere, releasing energy. This energy is released in the form of visible light and creates the light plays we call aurora.
Although aurorae are mostly seen in polar regions, they can also be seen at lower latitudes, that is, far from the poles, during strong geomagnetic storms.