Power Outage Warning As Experts Predict ‘Big Solar Flare Heading To Earth’

Space weather forecasters have warned that a large solar flare is “heading to Earth” today sparking concerns of satellite disruptions and power outages for billions.

Forecasters at the Space Weather Prediction Center (SWPC), which is a unit of the US Department of Commerce under NOAA, have issued a G2 geomagnetic storm warning for October 11.

The Express reports: Solar storms are rated on a scale from G1 to G5 – with one being the weakest and five having the most potential for damage. But even a G1 stomp’s can create issues for billions, as experts expect power grid fluctuations and minor impacts on satellite operations.

In a statement SWPC said: “Induced currents / power grid fluctuations can occur.

“High-latitude power systems may experience voltage alarms.

“Spacecraft – satellite orientation irregularities may occur, increased drag on low Earth-orbit satellites is possible.”

The Sun is the primary cause of space weather.

At times, the Sun can be thought of as going through a “stormy” period where its surface is more active than normal.

When this happens, it can send streams of energised particles out in all directions, which can be observed through the Northern Lights and the Southern Lights.

While these solar events can help illuminate the sky with stunning aurora, they can also do considerable harm to electronics, electrical grids, and satellite and radio communications.