Severe Geomagnetic Storms Spark Widespread Northern Lights Across U.S., Disrupting Communications
A severe G4-level geomagnetic storm, triggered by coronal mass ejections from the sun, illuminated the northern lights across the U.S., reaching Florida, with potential for continued displays and infrastructure disruptions.
See Photos of the Northern Lights That Dazzled the U.S.
Scientific American
Overview
- The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration issued a severe geomagnetic storm watch as coronal mass ejections from the sun caused G4-level storms.
- These severe geomagnetic storms triggered vivid northern lights, making them visible across the United States, reaching as far south as Florida.
- The Aurora Borealis was observed in numerous states, including Idaho, Iowa, Missouri, New York, Texas, and Florida, showcasing the widespread impact of the solar event.
- While the initial G4-level storms have occurred, more potential displays of the northern lights are expected, though conditions may continue at a lower intensity.
- Space weather forecasters warn that these geomagnetic storms may disrupt critical communication infrastructure, including radio, GPS, and power systems, posing ongoing concerns.
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Analysis
Center-leaning sources cover the northern lights neutrally, focusing on factual explanations and widespread visibility. They use descriptive language to convey the aurora's beauty while providing scientific context about coronal mass ejections and geomagnetic storms, without sensationalizing potential minor disruptions.
"A powerful geomagnetic storm hit Earth's atmosphere, yielding a dazzling display of lights that was captured on video and in photographs as far south as Texas and Florida."
USA TODAY"The powerful activity from the sun that unveiled the beautiful display in skies across the United States is expected to continue."
USA TODAY"The U.S. saw vivid northern lights as far south as Florida — and more could be coming."
NPR"The aurora borealis — skies lighting up in stunning shades of blue, pink and green — was spotted in states spanning from Minnesota and Massachusetts to Florida, Colorado and Texas."
CBS News"A surge in energized solar particles hurling towards the Earth is lighting up the skies as far south as Florida with dazzling displays."
NBC News"Brilliant colors strobed the skies across much of North America — viewed as far south as Florida — on Nov. 11 as a powerful geomagnetic storm arrived in the atmosphere, setting off the auroras."
USA TODAY"The vibrant displays could be visible across much of the northern U.S., and as far south as Alabama and Northern California."
ABC NewsArticles (11)
Center (7)
FAQ
A G4-level geomagnetic storm is caused by coronal mass ejections (CMEs) from the sun, which, upon reaching Earth, disturb its magnetic field. This disturbance can lead to vivid auroras at lower latitudes and disrupt critical infrastructure such as power grids, satellite operations, GPS navigation, and high-frequency radio communications.
The northern lights were visible across many U.S. states including Idaho, Iowa, Missouri, New York, Texas, Florida, and Massachusetts, showing a rare southern reach of the aurora borealis triggered by the severe geomagnetic storm.
The geomagnetic storm can cause degradation and temporary loss of GPS signals, interruptions in high-frequency radio communications, and anomalies in satellite operations, especially affecting low-Earth-orbit satellites and navigation systems crucial during disaster relief.
More displays of northern lights and continued geomagnetic disturbances are possible, though likely at lower intensities. Infrastructure operators have been advised to monitor and mitigate impacts, such as increased stress on power grids and GPS outages. Users reliant on GPS and communication systems should prepare for intermittent disruptions.
Severe geomagnetic storms can degrade GPS accuracy or cause temporary signal loss, affecting precision farming tasks like planting and data collection. Farmers may need to pause fieldwork during the storm or accept reduced accuracy in operations until conditions improve.
History
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