Thailand faces powerful geomagnetic storm post solar flares
The Thai Astronomical Society has warned that a powerful geomagnetic storm may hit Thailand later on Thursday thanks to a powerful solar flare two days ago.
This storm is expected to reach G4 or G5 levels, potentially impacting satellite operations and communication systems.
The warning, citing the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), states that a fast coronal mass ejection (CME) or solar flare erupted from the Sun on Tuesday.
The agency has cautioned that the storm could intensify to the extreme G5 level.
Assoc Prof Dr Jessada Denduangboripan, from Chulalongkorn University’s Faculty of Science, explained that geomagnetic storms occur when the solar wind collides with Earth's magnetic field. While the collision happens in space, it can affect Earth-based systems, particularly satellites, power grids, and radio communications.
The severity of geomagnetic storms can be classified as:
- G5 (Extreme): Severe impacts on power grids, satellites, and communication systems
- G4 (Severe): Widespread disruption to power systems and spacecraft
- G3 (Strong): Irregularities in power transmission systems and potential satellite malfunctions
- G2 (Moderate): Anomalies in high-latitude transmission systems and satellite direction control
- G1 (Minor): Slight fluctuations in power systems and potential disruptions to migrating animals
The Thai Astronomical Society and other relevant agencies are closely monitoring the situation and will provide updates as the storm progresses.
