Interplanetary Shocks Pose Growing Threat to Electrical Infrastructure

New research reveals that the angle of solar wind impacts is crucial in predicting and mitigating damage to power grids and pipelines.

Interplanetary shocks from the Sun can create geomagnetically induced currents (GICs) that damage infrastructure.
Head-on impacts of these shocks generate stronger currents compared to angled impacts.
The May 2024 geomagnetic storm, the most severe in two decades, highlighted the potential for widespread damage.
Predicting shock angles up to two hours in advance could help protect vulnerable systems.
Managing specific electric circuits during shock alerts can extend the lifetime of critical equipment.