Science
Severe solar storm could disrupt power for millions, research indicates
A severe solar storm could cost billions daily and cut power to millions, according to Slashdot.
The short version
- A study in AGU Advances modeled the effects of a rare, major solar storm on the US electrical grid.[Slashdot]
- The analysis projects that such an event could cut power to 5.1 million people and 135,000 businesses.[Slashdot]
- Economic losses are estimated at $1.5 billion to $2 billion per day across affected sectors.[Slashdot]
- Geophysicist Anna Kelbert warned that the nation currently remains ill-prepared for a major magnetic storm.[Slashdot]
Key facts
- A study published in AGU Advances modeled the nationwide impacts of a rare solar storm on US power systems.[Slashdot]
- The research estimates daily economic losses of $1.5 billion to $2 billion resulting from a major solar storm.[Slashdot]
- The model projects power outages affecting approximately 5.1 million individuals and 135,000 businesses.[Slashdot]
- Geophysicist Anna Kelbert stated that current findings show the country is ill-prepared to withstand a major magnetic storm.[Slashdot]
What remains uncertain
- The estimates rely on modeling of a rare event rather than direct observations of an equivalent modern grid disruption.[Slashdot]
Sources
Outlet counts describe coverage, not independent confirmation. Reports may share a wire service or original source.