‘

NOAA Issues Alert

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) Space Weather Prediction Centre has issued an alert for a geomagnetic storm expected to affect Earth on July 24, 2024. The storm could bring aurora borealis to New York.

Coronal Mass Ejection

The geomagnetic storm is linked to a coronal mass ejection (CME) released from the Sun on July 21. This CME is moving towards Earth and is anticipated to arrive on July 24.

Formation of  Northern Lights

CMEs contain electrically charged particles, or ions. When these ions collide with Earth’s magnetosphere, they can trigger geomagnetic storms. The resulting interaction with atmospheric gases produces the northern lights, or aurora borealis.

Aurora Borealis in  New York

While aurora borealis is commonly seen in polar regions, its appearance in New York is relatively rare, making this event notable for the city.

Geomagnetic Storm Classification

NOAA classifies geomagnetic storms using a G-scale from G1 (minor) to G5 (major). The current storm has been classified as a G2-class, indicating a moderate level of intensity.

Potential Impacts on Technology

Geomagnetic storms can disrupt technological systems. They have the potential to cause surges in electrical currents, leading to power grid overloads and blackouts.

Effects on Satellites

CMEs can damage satellites in low Earth orbit by creating increased radio static and impacting satellite operations due to atmospheric changes.

Disruptions to Communications

Geomagnetic storms may affect radio transmissions by increasing interference and static in the ionosphere.

Atmospheric Effects

CMEs can also warm Earth’s atmosphere, making it denser and potentially affecting satellite travel through this thicker medium.