There was much said about the potential of “space weather” disruption prior to a series of solar flare outbursts or “Coronal Mass Ejection” (CME) events this weekend. However, despite some of the more alarming predictions, the geomagnetic issues appear to be minimal.
A aurora, essentially widespread ‘Northern Lights’ were visible last night over northern part of the Northern Hemisphere. Canadians, Americans and Europeans were able to see a rare event. Typically, the Northern Lights are centered closer to the geomagnetic poles; however, with the sun storm interacting with the atmosphere the light display is visible further south Friday and Saturday night.
[…] The US government’s advice to the public on how to prepare for a space weather event largely resembles the same steps you’d take in response to an extended power outage.
For example, the government recommends keeping extra batteries or a hand-powered charger available for small electronic devices. Officials say you may want to disconnect electric appliances to protect them from power surges and limit your electricity usage during a solar weather event. You may also want to keep your car’s gas tank at least half-full so that you do not need to visit a gas station (which needs electricity to operate the pumps). (read more)
