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Space Weather
Table of Contents
Introduction
Space weather may sound distant, but major solar storms can disrupt technologies that billions of people rely on every day. GPS, power grids, aviation, satellites, and even emergency services can all be affected.
The most extreme solar storms in history caused continent-wide power outages and widespread communication failures. While these events are rare, they are high-impact: a strong storm today could disrupt society for days or even weeks.
This guide brings together protocols from NOAA’s Space Weather Prediction Center, the National Weather Service, and national strategy plans to explain what space weather is, why it matters, and how to prepare.
Hazard Types
Solar Flares
Explosions of electromagnetic radiation from the sun that can cause radio blackouts and disrupt communication systems.
Geomagnetic Storms (Coronal Mass Ejections – CMEs)
Clouds of charged particles from the sun hitting Earth’s magnetic field. These storms can overload power grids, damage satellites, and disrupt navigation.
Solar Radiation Storms
High-energy particles that can pose radiation hazards to astronauts and high-altitude flights, while also damaging electronics in satellites.
Radio Blackouts
Interference with shortwave and HF communications, affecting aviation, maritime operations, and emergency responders.
Technological Impacts
GPS errors, power grid instability, degraded satellite operations, disrupted pipelines, and interruptions in communication networks.
Preparation
Before the event
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Monitor official alerts from NOAA’s Space Weather Prediction Center and national authorities.
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Understand local vulnerabilities: power supply, GPS, cell service, aviation, and utilities.
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Assemble emergency supplies: battery radio, flashlights, backup chargers, non-perishable food, and water.
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Backup critical data and ensure paper copies of essential maps, records, and contacts.
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Register for utility company and emergency alert notifications.
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Infrastructure operators (power, aviation, hospitals): follow FEMA/NWS guidelines on hardening grids, backup power, and continuity planning.
Checklist essentials
NOAA/NWS space weather alerts and monitoring tools.
Battery-powered NOAA Weather Radio, flashlights, and extra batteries.
Surge protectors and backup systems for sensitive electronics.
Manual alternatives for navigation and communication.
Emergency kit with food, water, first aid, and cash.
During the event
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Follow all official alerts—severe storms may trigger requests for power conservation or equipment shutdowns.
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Minimize use of sensitive electronics; unplug non-essential devices.
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Avoid unnecessary travel if navigation, traffic control, or fuel systems are disrupted.
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Use a battery-powered radio for reliable updates.
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Expect GPS errors and communication dropouts; rely on backup methods.
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Hospitals, utilities, and infrastructure operators should enact continuity procedures immediately.
After the event
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Wait for official all-clear before resuming normal operations.
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Inspect electronics, solar systems, and communications equipment for damage.
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Check and recalibrate GPS and navigation systems.
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Report outages or damage to utilities.
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Replenish emergency supplies and update preparedness plans.
Special Populations
Children & Families
Treat space weather events like extended blackouts—stock food, water, light, and safe activities.
Older Adults
Plan for backup power if using medical devices; sign up for utility priority restoration lists.
People with Disabilities / Medical Needs
Have backup batteries for medical devices, extra medication, and trusted contacts.
Businesses
Activate continuity plans; provide paper or offline backups for key operations.
Critical Services (Hospitals, Utilities)
Regular drills for grid-down scenarios; maintain direct contact with NWS alerts and resilience protocols.
Quick Reference Tables
Space Weather Alert Levels
| Alert Level | Message | Actions |
|---|---|---|
| Watch/Advisory | Minor activity expected | Monitor alerts, protect electronics, prep backup |
| Warning | Strong storm likely/underway | Unplug devices, expect disruptions, follow alerts |
| Emergency | Major disruption/blackout | Use emergency kits, backup systems, follow orders |
Response by Phase
| Phase | Key Actions | Priority Groups |
|---|---|---|
| Before | Monitor forecasts, stock supplies | Everyone |
| During | Protect electronics, switch to backups | Medically dependent, businesses |
| After | Check for damage, recalibrate systems | All households, utilities, services |
Additional notes/thoughts
Space weather events are rare but high-impact. They don’t pose direct outdoor risks like floods or hurricanes, but their technological impacts can cascade into widespread emergencies.
Every recommendation here is grounded in official U.S. strategy, NOAA guidance, and international best practices. Preparing for power loss, GPS failure, and communication outages makes you more resilient not only to space weather but to any extended disruption.
References
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NOAA Space Weather Implementation Plan: https://www.spaceweather.gov/news/new-space-weather-implementation-plan-released
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PreventionWeb – Safeguarding Satellites: https://www.preventionweb.net/news/safeguarding-satellites-how-noaa-monitors-space-weather-prevent-disruptions
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National Space Weather Strategy & Action Plan (2019 PDF): https://trumpwhitehouse.archives.gov/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/National-Space-Weather-Strategy-and-Action-Plan-2019.pdf
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NOAA Space Weather Prediction Center: https://www.spaceweather.gov
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Canadian Space Weather Program: https://www.spaceweather.gc.ca/index-en.php
Image Credits
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