GEOMAGNETIC STORM WATCH

GEOMAGNETIC STORM WATCH

(from Spaceweather.com): 

Earth's magnetic field is reverberating from an unexpected CME impact on May 6th, which sparked a G2-class geomagnetic storm. Another CME is following close on its heels. A second impact expected on May 7th or 8th could bring renewed geomagnetic storming with auroras across parts of Europe, Canada, and northern-tier US States. Full story @ Spaceweather.com.

**What is a CME?**

A CME, or Coronal Mass Ejection, is a huge explosion of hot, magnetized plasma from the sun's atmosphere. It happens when the sun's magnetic field lines become tangled and snap, releasing a huge amount of energy. CMEs can travel at speeds of up to 1 million miles per hour and can reach Earth in just a few days.

**What is a geomagnetic storm?**

A geomagnetic storm is a disturbance in the Earth's magnetosphere caused by the impact of a CME. The magnetosphere is the region of space around Earth that is controlled by Earth's magnetic field. When a CME hits the magnetosphere, it can cause the field to change shape and intensity. This can disrupt communications, power grids, and satellites.

**What are the effects of a CME on Earth?**

CMEs can have a variety of effects on Earth, depending on their strength. Some of the effects that have been observed include:

* **Auroras:** CMEs can cause the Northern Lights (aurora borealis) and the Southern Lights (aurora australis) to be more intense.
* **Power outages:** CMEs can disrupt power grids, causing outages in some areas.
* **Satellite damage:** CMEs can damage satellites, causing them to malfunction or even fall out of orbit.
* **Communication disruptions:** CMEs can disrupt communications, such as radio and television signals.
* **GPS problems:** CMEs can interfere with GPS signals, making them less accurate or even unavailable.

**Are CMEs dangerous?**

CMEs are not usually dangerous to people, but they can cause some disruption to our technology. However, in rare cases, a very strong CME could cause widespread power outages or damage to satellites.

**What can we do to protect ourselves from CMEs?**

There is not much that we can do to protect ourselves from CMEs, but there are some things that we can do to mitigate their effects. For example, we can:

* **Install surge protectors on our electronics.** This will help to protect our electronics from power surges caused by CMEs.
* **Have a backup power source, such as a generator.** This will help us to keep our lights on and our appliances running in the event of a power outage.
* **Be aware of the signs of a CME.** If you see the Northern Lights or Southern Lights, it is a sign that a CME has hit Earth. Be prepared for possible power outages or other disruptions.

CMEs are a natural phenomenon that we cannot control, but we can take steps to protect ourselves from their effects. By being aware of the risks and taking precautions, we can help to minimize the impact of CMEs on our lives. BARD