CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. As the U.S. grapples with the aftermath of back-to-back hurricanes, experts are raising concerns over a severe solar storm that could place additional stress on already vulnerable power grids. Scientists from NOAA’s Space Weather Prediction Center are closely monitoring the situation, particularly in regions heavily impacted by Hurricane Helene two weeks ago.
Although affected by the recent hurricanes, Florida is unlikely to experience power disruptions from the solar storm unless its intensity significantly increases. Rob Steenburgh, a scientist from NOAA, provided reassurance, saying, “That adds a little bit more to the comfort level. Why we’re here is to let them know so that they can prepare.”
However, Shawn Dahl, a space weather forecaster with NOAA, emphasized that areas hit hard by Hurricane Helene are at greater risk. These regions, already dealing with weakened infrastructure, could face additional power outages if the solar storm intensifies.
In addition to potential power grid issues, the solar storm may also bring an unexpected visual spectacle: the northern lights. NOAA forecasts that the auroras could be visible as far south as the lower Midwest and Northern California, though exact locations and timings remain uncertain. Skygazers are advised to have their smartphones ready, as these devices are often able to capture the phenomenon more effectively than the human eye.
The solar activity comes as the sun nears the peak of its current 11-year cycle, a period that has already produced striking auroras across the Northern Hemisphere. Fortunately, no major disruptions were reported during May’s solar storm, giving experts hope that this current event may pass with minimal damage.
As the country continues its hurricane recovery efforts, NOAA remains vigilant, providing updates to help mitigate further strain on critical infrastructure.
Gary P Hernal started college at UP Diliman and received his BA in Economics from San Sebastian College, Manila, and Masters in Information Systems Management from Keller Graduate School of Management of DeVry University in Oak Brook, IL. He has 25 years of copy editing and management experience at Thomson West, a subsidiary of Thomson Reuters.
