Sonnensturm threatens Europe: Experts warn of blackouts!

Sonnensturm threatens Europe: Experts warn of blackouts!

NASA has published an urgent warning of a trendy solar storm that could potentially bring considerable disruptions for the earth. Communication networks, navigation systems and the power supply are particularly affected. This warning takes place in connection with the strongest solar outbreak of the year, which was registered on May 14, 2025 from the AR4087 solarfain region. The outbreak reached a strength of X2.7, which classifies it at the lower end of the X class. Previously, on May 13, the sun generated an X1.2 flare from another active region. This could have been the harbinger of intensive solar activities that now reach the earth.

The solar storm, which already had an effect on May 14, led to temporary radio failures in Europe, Asia and the Middle East. High frequency communications were affected, which were interrupted for up to ten minutes, according to NOAA. Polaright expert Vincent Ledvina describes the current situation as increasingly intensive, since the active region of the sun is directly aligned with the earth and further eruptions can also be expected in the coming days. On the same day, May 14th, another large solar flare with an M7.74 class, which could bring several challenges for technologies on earth.

dangers and effects of solar storms

The possible consequence of solar storms should not be underestimated. For example, geomagnetic disorders, triggered by coronal mass emissions (CME), can deform the magnetic field of the earth. These disorders can generate electrical tensions in the atmosphere, which can lead to high tensions in power lines. In the past, this already led to the destruction of transformers and to failures in the power grid, especially in high latitudes. The risk of such disorders is particularly increased in the polar regions, since protection through the earth's atmosphere and the magnetic field is weaker here.

In addition, the tunnel tower means an increased risk of satellite technology and astronauts. Passengers are protected in travel flight heights of around 11 km, but high -energy particles of solar storms can affect satellite functions. In this way, studies such as SOHO have lost up to 25% of their performance due to such radiation since 1995. Benefits are also a serious threat to future manned space missions, especially during space walks.

Northern lights and effects on GPS

solar storms can also cause a northern lights in high latitudes, which make night a spectacular spectacle in the sky. If the solar activity is sufficient, even a primary light in lower latitudes, such as in Germany, could be visible. However, the ionization of the earth's atmosphere can also affect the GPS signals by the solar storms, which leads to incorrect calculations for GPS devices. This is particularly critical because many modern technologies are dependent on precise navigation services.

The current processes on the edge of the sun and the associated risks for our technology and infrastructure illustrate the importance of close monitoring of solar activity. Organizations such as NASA and the Noaa Space Weather Prediction Center observe the situation exactly in order to be able to warn of possible disorders at an early stage. In this context it remains to be seen whether and how solar activity will develop in the coming days.

Kosmo reports to be made in order to increase the potential effects, while Space.com The technical details of the outbreak. Last but not least, mps Further information on solar storms and its effects on earth.