A solar flare is a burst of electromagnetic radiation from the sun. They can strike without warning and your safety largely depends on being prepared and taking protective measures. The primary survival strategy involves taking cover in a shielded location to minimize exposure to the intense radiation and potential disruptions to technology and infrastructure. This could include seeking shelter in underground bunkers, shielded buildings, or specially designed structures that can protect against the effects of the solar flare. It is no surprise that there are few of these in locations where people need them. So, a good industrial building could suffice.
Let’s look back in history to the Carrington Event. The Carrington Event, also known as the Carrington-Hodgson Flare, was a powerful solar storm that occurred in 1859 and is named after British astronomer Richard Carrington, who observed and recorded the solar flare that initiated the event.
On September 1, 1859, Richard Carrington observed a significant solar flare through his telescope. He noted the appearance of a white light flare on the sun’s surface. This was a highly energetic and intense solar flare associated with a coronal mass ejection (CME) that followed. The solar flare and subsequent CME released a massive amount of solar material and energy into space. This material reached Earth’s magnetosphere about 17 hours later, triggering an intense geomagnetic storm. This intense geomagnetic activity induced powerful electrical currents in telegraph systems around the world. Telegraph operators reported sparks and electrical shocks, and in some cases, telegraph equipment caught fire. Some operators were able to send and receive messages even after disconnecting power sources due to the induced currents in the lines. However, some copper lines in the Midwest U.S. as large as 3/8-inch diameter melted due to the flare’s intensity.
The geomagnetic storm caused by the Carrington Event was so intense that auroras (northern and southern lights) were observed at much lower latitudes than usual. Reports of vibrant auroras came in from regions where such phenomena were rarely seen, including the Caribbean and parts of the southern United States. The Carrington Event was a significant event in the study of space weather and its impact on Earth’s technology and environment. More importantly, it highlighted the potential for solar activity to disrupt and damage technological systems.
The Carrington Event serves as a historical reference point for understanding the potential impact of powerful solar storms on modern technology and infrastructure. It underscores the importance of monitoring space weather and being prepared for the possibility of future events that can affect our increasingly interconnected and technology-dependent society, which is driven by critical infrastructures (see chart below).
Additionally, being aware of solar activity through monitoring space weather forecasts and alerts is crucial. Staying informed about potential solar flares and their expected impact can provide valuable time to take necessary precautions. It’s also wise to have a communication plan in place, emergency supplies stocked, and backup power sources available to deal with disruptions caused by a solar flare’s effects on power grids and technology.
What would happen today if a solar flare like the Carrington Event occurred? It would have significant and widespread impacts on modern technology and infrastructure. It has been 164 years since that event. The enhanced technology used today is more vulnerable to solar flare disruption than during the 1859 event. Following are likely results should we experience another Carrington-level event:
1. Power Grid Disruptions: The intense geomagnetic activity from a powerful solar storm could induce electrical currents in power grids, potentially leading to widespread blackouts.
2. Satellite Damage: Satellites in orbit that are in the path of a solar flare could experience malfunctions, damage, or complete destruction due to increased radiation levels, impacting communication, navigation, and weather forecasting systems.
3. Communications Breakdown: High-frequency radio signals used for long-distance communication could be disrupted, affecting aviation, maritime, and emergency communication systems.
4. GPS and Navigation Issues: The accuracy of GPS systems could be compromised, affecting navigation for various sectors including transportation and emergency services.
5. Pipeline and Infrastructure Concerns: Critical infrastructure like oil and gas pipelines, as well as transportation networks, might be vulnerable to disruptions.
6. Technology Failures: Sensitive electronics and computer systems could experience damage or malfunction, affecting financial systems, healthcare, and more.
7. Auroras at Low Latitudes: Just like the Carrington Event, strong auroras could be visible at latitudes where they are not typically seen.
To mitigate the potential impact of such an event, modern technology systems and infrastructure have some level of shielding and protection, but it is likely inadequate. Additionally, monitoring space weather and having emergency response plans in place can help minimize damage and facilitate recovery. However, the exact extent of the impact would depend on the intensity and duration of the solar storm, as well as geographic location affected. Have a safe day.