A large coronal hole on the Sun has unleashed a high-speed stream of charged particles towards Earth, expected to cause a moderate G2-level geomagnetic storm. Officials have warned of potential power disruptions, especially affecting systems in high-latitude areas like Michigan, where fluctuations have already been noted. The storm may create northern lights visible further south than usual and could have effects on satellite operations, GPS accuracy, and polar flight navigation during the ongoing solar maximum phase, highlighting the need for better preparedness for extreme space weather.
'Weak power grid fluctuations can occur,' officials share in a Friday update, noting that electricity has weakened around Michigan as of this morning.
The colossal claw-shaped opening, known as a coronal hole, is the source of what's known as a Coronal Hole High-Speed Stream (CH HSS), a fast-moving flow of solar wind now headed straight for Earth.
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