New York City emergency management officials are advising about an impending geomagnetic storm on Thursday, originating from solar activity. Geomagnetic storms result from disturbances in Earth’s magnetosphere caused by changes in solar wind currents. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) warns that plasma ejected from the sun could affect technology and critical infrastructure from Thursday through Friday.
However, the public is unlikely to directly perceive the effects. Aries Dela Cruz of NYC Emergency Management emphasizes that there’s no need for immediate action from the public, urging caution against undue alarm. The Space Weather Prediction Center is closely monitoring the situation and collaborating with various stakeholders to mitigate potential disruptions. Additionally, residents in certain regions may have the chance to witness the Northern Lights due to heightened solar activity.
This upcoming storm will mark the fourth observed in the current solar cycle, which commenced in December 2019. Erica Grow Cei from SWPC underscores the importance of preparedness and vigilance as they await further data on the storm’s intensity. As part of the preparedness efforts, NYC Emergency Management is coordinating with local utilities and communication networks to ensure resilience against any potential disruptions. This proactive approach includes contingency plans to safeguard critical services and keep the community informed.