An unusually strong solar storm is currently hitting Earth, with the potential to produce northern lights in the U.S. this weekend and disrupt power and communications systems. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) has issued a severe geomagnetic storm warning, urging power plant operators and spacecraft in orbit to take precautions.
The storm is expected to produce northern lights as far south as Alabama and Northern California, although it may not be as dramatic as usual. Signals between GPS satellites and ground receivers could also be scrambled or lost as a result of the storm.
The sun has been active since Wednesday, producing strong solar flares and at least seven outbursts of plasma. While NASA has confirmed that the storm poses no serious threat to astronauts aboard the International Space Station, several sun-focused spacecraft are monitoring the activity closely.
With the potential for disruptions to power and communications systems, it is important for individuals and organizations to be aware of the situation and take any necessary precautions. Stay tuned for updates on the solar storm and its impact on Earth in the coming days.
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