Geomagnetic Storm Incoming: What to Expect

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s (NOAA) Space Weather Prediction Center has just issued a watch for a strong geomagnetic storm (G3) for March 31st and a moderate watch (G2) for April 1st. According to the NOAA website, we are currently in a minor watch (G1). But what does this mean, and why is it happening?

Impacts to technology from a G3 storm generally remain small, but it can drive the aurora further equatorward of its polar home. Aurora may be visible over the northern tier states if the conditions are favorable. Credit: NOAA

The good news is, this is not something you generally need to panic about. In fact, places other than the poles may get to see auroras tonight or tomorrow as a result of the storm (more on that later). This geomagnetic storm could mean that certain electronic communications such as radios, GPS, cell towers, and wifi may be temporarily affected. This could look like a weaker signal or loss of signal temporarily depending on where you live. Most likely, this storm will not greatly impact your routine, but check back for updates from NOAA on their website as this storm continues.

How Did This Geomagnetic Storm Happen?

The source of geomagnetic storms is the Sun. This is because activity on the Sun can send high energy particles hurtling towards Earth during periods of high activity. Yesterday and the 28th, the Sun exhibited high levels of energy, sending off two coronal mass ejections (CMEs). These CMEs happened to be facing towards Earth, and are expected to start hitting…