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Geomagnetic Storms: How to Prepare
January 16, 2023 at 01:19 PM EST
By WeatherBug's Alex Friedman
A geomagnetic storm is defined as a disturbance to the geomagnetic electric field on Earth due to variations in solar wind gusts. These storms are defined on an intensity scale from G1 to G5, with G5 representing the most extreme. In 1989, a geomagnetic storm left millions of Canadian residents without power for several hours.
G5 storms typically do not cause catastrophic damages and only occur around 4 days every 11 years. However, it is important to remain prepared and alert for these types of events, as power outages are likely.
The two most important preparations for a geomagnetic storm include building an emergency kit and creating a family communication plan. An emergency kit should include non-perishable food, water, batteries, a flashlight, a first aid kit and a battery powered cell phone. A family communication plan should clearly state the operations and needs of each individual during a natural disaster and can be practiced in anticipation of these events.
Other preparation methods include:
Sources: NOAA, NWS, WeatherBug
Story Image via Pixabay
G5 storms typically do not cause catastrophic damages and only occur around 4 days every 11 years. However, it is important to remain prepared and alert for these types of events, as power outages are likely.
The two most important preparations for a geomagnetic storm include building an emergency kit and creating a family communication plan. An emergency kit should include non-perishable food, water, batteries, a flashlight, a first aid kit and a battery powered cell phone. A family communication plan should clearly state the operations and needs of each individual during a natural disaster and can be practiced in anticipation of these events.
Other preparation methods include:
- Freezing plastic containers of water in order to keep refrigerated food cold.
- Keeping the gas tank of the car filled to at least ½ maximum capacity.
- Having a house key on hand.
- Preparing a family contact sheet with important phone numbers.
Sources: NOAA, NWS, WeatherBug
Story Image via Pixabay