Thailand Braces for Historic Geomagnetic Storm: Impacts and Precautions

 

Thailand is currently preparing for an unprecedented geomagnetic storm, reaching level 7 intensity, not seen in recent history. This storm, expected to bring mesmerizing auroras to high-latitude regions and potential disruptions to satellite communications, follows recent solar flare activities monitored closely by the Geo-Informatics and Space Technology Development Agency (GISTDA).

Since the evening of May 10, officials have been on high alert as the planet faces one of the most severe geomagnetic storms recorded, comparable to the historic Carrington event of 1859 and the Halloween solar storm of 2003. Originating from sunspot region AR 3664, the current solar activity has unleashed several coronal mass ejections (CMEs) into space, causing continuous solar winds impacting Earth.

Recent updates from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) indicate astonishing solar wind velocity of 835 kilometers per second, with significant magnetic field fluctuations suggesting a direct impact on Earth. The Kp index, measuring geomagnetic activity, has hit the top of the scale at level G5.

Sittiporn Kanjanasindhu, Director of the Space Technology Research Centre at GISTDA, warns of potential disruptions to satellite operations, navigation, communication satellites, and electrical systems. Collaboration with international partners and monitoring through the JASPER space weather forecast system ensures continuous vigilance.

GISTDA urges residents and authorities to stay informed and prepared as the geomagnetic storm unfolds, anticipating both awe-inspiring auroras and challenges to satellite communications.