Biggest solar storm in 20 years: GPS, blackouts, Aurora, Northern Lights- Top 10 must know facts

The Earth experiences a rare and intense solar storm, resulting in stunning displays of the Northern Lights across the Northern Hemisphere. Despite concerns over disruptions, power and communications remain largely unaffected as the auroras illuminate the skies. (Image credit: AFP)

This storm , ranked 4 on a scale of 1 to 5 poses a risk for high-voltage transmission lines for power grids, not the electrical lines ordinarily found in people’s homes. Satellites also could be affected, which in turn could disrupt navigation and communication services here on Earth. (Image credit: AFP )

The US National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) issues a severe geomagnetic storm warning as a solar outburst reaches Earth earlier than expected. Precautions are advised for power plants, spacecraft, and emergency agencies to mitigate potential impacts. (Image credit: AFP )

NOAA predicts the aurora could be visible as far south as Alabama and Northern California, though experts caution it may not resemble typical displays. Nonetheless, people are encouraged to capture the phenomenon with phone cameras for a unique celestial experience.(Image credit: AFP )

NASA monitors the solar storm's effects on spacecraft and the International Space Station (ISS). While increased radiation levels pose a concern, astronauts aboard the ISS are prepared to relocate if necessary, with sensitive instruments being shut down to prevent damage. (Image credit: AFP )

Multiple sun-focused spacecraft observe the solar activity, providing valuable data for scientists. The event is deemed an opportunity to study and understand solar phenomena, contributing to ongoing research in heliophysics. (Image credit: AFP)

References are made to past solar storms, including the 1859 Carrington Event and the 2003 extreme geomagnetic storm. While comparisons are drawn, experts suggest that the current event may not reach the same magnitude but could still pose risks to power grids and satellites. (Image credit: AFP)

Despite the intensity of the solar storm, existing mitigation measures help to minimize potential disruptions. NOAA and other agencies collaborate to issue warnings and advisories, ensuring preparedness among stakeholders. (Image credit: AFP)

The solar storm is characterized by strong solar flares and coronal mass ejections, emanating from a massive sunspot. These eruptions, part of the sun's natural cycle, contribute to the heightened solar activity observed during the event. (Image credit: AFP )

The solar storm underscores the sun's transition towards the peak of its 11-year cycle, known as Solar Cycle 25. With ongoing solar flares and coronal mass ejections, heightened solar activity is expected to persist, prompting continued monitoring and vigilance from space agencies and researchers. (Image credit: AFP )