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Why solar storms jeopardize power supplies

Thu, 08 Mar 2012 13:34:45 CST
By: Jim Browne

The largest solar storm in five years is engulfing the Earth, but scientists say the planet has lucked out so far. The storm could disrupt technology but also spread colorful Northern Lights. WGLT chief engineer Mark Hill says when the magnetic waves from the solar storm reach earth, those waves can cause problems, much like an electrical generator creates electricity by moving wires through a magnetic field.


The storm arrived at Earth about 5 O'clock Thursday morning. So far officials say there have been no reports of problems with power grids, GPS, satellites or other technologies that are often disrupted by solar storms.

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