MachineryLink

The Space Weather Prediction Center (SWPC) has issued a G1 geomagnetic storm watch for this weekend, July 13-14. A storm of this intensity likely will have little to no impact on farming guidance systems.

The watch is the result of a high-speed stream from the sun associated with a positive coronal hole. It is expected to arrive at Earth and produce minor geomagnetic storming conditions July 13-14, the SWPC reported. "When they arrive at Earth, escalated geomagnetic activity may result."

A G1 geomagnetic storm is rated as minor on the Geomagnetic Storms scale that rates geomagnetic storm events up to G5, or extreme storms. G1 storms may cause weak power grid fluctuations and have a minor impact on satellite operations. The aurora is commonly visible at high latitudes (northern Michigan and Maine).

A G5 storm, on the other hand, can cause widespread voltage control problems. Some grid systems may experience complete collapse or blackouts. Transformers may experience damage. HF (high-frequency) radio propagation may be impossible in many areas for one to two days, satellite navigation may be degraded for days, low-frequency radio navigation can be out for hours, and the aurora has been seen as low as Florida and southern Texas.

Dan Miller can be reached at dan.miller@dtn.com

Follow him on social platform X @DMillerPF

(c) Copyright 2024 DTN, LLC. All rights reserved.