Solar Storms May Cause Havoc in 2025
Scientists Warn of Widespread Damage
Trillions of Dollars in Losses Possible
Solar magnetic storms, which are expected to reach a cyclical peak in 2025, could cause widespread havoc and trillions of dollars in losses, scientists warn. Solar Cycle 25 began in December 2019, and the Sun's activity has been increasing ever since. The next solar maximum, when activity is expected to peak, is predicted to occur in 2025. As the Sun's activity ramps up, the risk of geomagnetic storms also increases. These storms can disrupt power grids, communications systems, and other critical infrastructure. In 2012, a relatively minor solar storm caused a power outage that affected millions of people in the northeastern United States. A larger storm in 1859, known as the Carrington Event, caused widespread damage to telegraph systems around the world.
Scientists are particularly concerned about the potential impact of a major solar storm on the modern world. Our society is increasingly dependent on technology, and a widespread power outage could have devastating consequences. In a report published in 2019, the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine warned that a major solar storm could cause up to $2.6 trillion in damage to the U.S. economy. The report also found that a solar storm could disrupt the power grid for weeks or even months, causing widespread blackouts and shortages of food, water, and fuel.
Scientists are working to develop ways to mitigate the effects of solar storms. One promising approach is to develop early warning systems that can provide utilities and other critical infrastructure with time to prepare for an impending storm. Another approach is to develop new technologies that are more resistant to the effects of geomagnetic storms. As the Sun's activity increases, it is more important than ever to be prepared for the potential impact of solar storms.
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