Northern Lights Glow as Solar Storms Disrupt Power and Internet Services

A major solar storm struck Earth late Sunday and continued into Monday. The storm reached G3 strength, strong enough to disrupt power grids and internet services. Starlink reported service failures for tens of thousands of users. At the same time, people in several northern states witnessed the rare northern lights.

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) confirmed that the storm peaked on Monday morning. By the afternoon, activity began to weaken. Still, smaller disruptions were expected through the start of the week.

What Happens During a Northern Lights Solar Storm

Solar storms occur when charged particles from the Sun collide with Earth’s magnetic field. These particles come from solar winds or large eruptions called coronal mass ejections. The impact disturbs Earth’s magnetic shield and can cause widespread effects.

The recent G3 storm followed by a G2 storm caused satellite interference, radio blackouts, and grid fluctuations. According to Reuters, Starlink users in several states faced a blackout, with nearly 40 percent losing service at the peak. More than 50,000 complaints were reported.

While the disruptions created concern, the storm also produced brilliant auroras. People in Alaska, Michigan, and nearby states saw colorful lights in the night sky. NOAA advised watchers to move away from city light pollution and face north for the best chance to see them.

Impact on Technology and Daily Life

G1 and G2 storms are considered minor to moderate, but G3 storms can have stronger effects. Power grid operators may notice voltage changes. Airlines sometimes reroute flights to avoid radio signal loss. Satellites can lose balance or face damage from increased radiation.

The Starlink system, owned by Elon Musk’s SpaceX, has been hit several times by solar activity in recent years. Experts warn that growing dependence on satellites makes these storms a bigger risk. According to BBC News, even moderate storms can disrupt navigation, communications, and internet services.

Auroras remain the most visible and positive effect. When solar particles strike Earth’s upper atmosphere, they create glowing curtains of light. These are called aurora borealis in the north and aurora australis in the south. People in at least 11 U.S. states got to witness this rare event.

The northern lights solar storm brought both beauty and disruption. While power and internet faced issues, skies lit up in colors across northern states. Experts expect activity to ease midweek, but warn that future storms could be stronger.

FYI (keeping you in the loop)-

Q1: What causes northern lights during a solar storm?

Northern lights form when charged solar particles hit Earth’s atmosphere. These particles excite gases in the sky, creating colorful light displays.

Q2: How strong was the latest solar storm?

The storm reached G3 level late Sunday. It weakened to G2 by Monday but still disrupted satellites and power systems.

Q3: Did Starlink users lose service?

Yes, Starlink reported over 50,000 complaints. Around 40 percent of users lost internet during the peak of the storm.

Q4: Can power grids be damaged by geomagnetic storms?

Yes, voltage changes and grid fluctuations can happen. Severe storms can cause widespread blackouts if systems are not protected.

Q5: How long will this solar activity last?

NOAA said the storm peaked Monday morning. Activity is expected to drop by Tuesday and Wednesday, with little effect afterward.