The UK is said to be bracing itself for the largest solar storm in more than two decades, meaning a risk of power blackouts and communication outages
A colossal solar storm is set to sweep the UK, bringing the risk of mass power and media blackouts.
The British Geological Survey (BGS) upgraded its geomagnetic forecast to the highest severity level on Wednesday, November 12, covering the afternoon and evening.
The government agency warned the event, dubbed a ‘cannibal storm’, could have a “significant impact” on communication systems, power grids and GPS satellite technology, NottinghamshireLive reports.
“Space weather can have a real impact on the lives of people across the planet,” said Dr Gemma Richardson, a geomagnetic hazard specialist at BGS.
“BGS records real-time data of geomagnetic conditions, underpinning the national forecast service.
“Our data suggests that this event could be one of the biggest storms we’ve seen in 20 years.”
Geomagnetic storms are caused by the impact of solar activity on the Earth’s magnetic field, which has implications for national energy infrastructure.
Current predictions suggest a second storm, feeding off the first, has the potential to reach the level of a G5 storm, the most extreme on the scale.
The storm should also result in stunning Northern Lights, known as aurora borealis, being visible in skies across the UK, similar to those that were on display last year.
Like any forecast, it is not possible to predict the size of the storm will be, which can travel from the sun to Earth in as little as 17 hours, BGS said.
The agency said: “Based on satellite observations, we anticipate this event will be significant; early indications such as ground measurements of solar energetic particles are some of the largest recorded since 2005.
“Assuming clear, dark skies, there is an increased chance of seeing the aurora borealis from the UK tonight. Observers in Scotland, northern England and Northern Ireland have the best chance if the weather is favourable.”
