A powerful solar storm is hitting Earth, disrupting GPS signals, communications systems, and power grids, this according to the British Geological Survey.
The rare “cannibal storm,” which formed when one solar eruption caught up with another, reached the planet this November 12 and may be one of the strongest geomagnetic events in 20 years. The storm has already produced vivid aurora displays across parts of the UK, with more expected tonight in Scotland, northern England, and Northern Ireland if skies remain clear.
Experts say the event could reach a G5 level, the most severe on the geomagnetic storm scale, potentially causing power fluctuations and satellite navigation issues for days. While NASA confirms there’s no direct risk to humans, the storm has already generated the largest geoelectric field at ground level since records began.
Intrigued? Click through to learn what solar flares are and how they can affect life on Earth.