What Are The Hazards Of Magnetic Storms? | U.S. Geological Survey

Maybe your like

Official websites use .gov A .gov website belongs to an official government organization in the United States.

Secure .gov websites use HTTPS A lock () or https:// means you’ve safely connected to the .gov website. Share sensitive information only on official, secure websites.

Label Close U.S. Geological Survey

Latest Earthquakes
Share Social Media
- Facebook
- Twitter
- Linkedin
- Digg
- Reddit
- Pinterest
- Email

Frequently Asked Questions
Planetary Science

What are the hazards of magnetic storms?

Our technology based infrastructure can be adversely affected by rapid magnetic field variations. This is especially true during “magnetic storms."

Because the ionosphere is heated and distorted during storms, long range radio communication that relies on sub-ionospheric reflection can be difficult or impossible and global-positioning system (GPS) communications can be degraded.
Ionospheric expansion can increase satellite drag and make their orbits difficult to control.
During magnetic storms, satellite electronics can be damaged through the build up and discharge of static-electric charges. Astronauts and high altitude pilots can be subjected to increased levels of radiation.
Even though rapid magnetic field variations are generated by currents in space, very real effects can result down here on the Earth’s surface. That includes voltage surges in power grids that cause blackouts.

Learn more: Keeping the Lights on in North America

FAQ
Multimedia
Publications
News

Items per page 6 12 Label dark space with golden solar flare

Do solar flares or magnetic storms (space weather) cause earthquakes? Do solar flares or magnetic storms (space weather) cause earthquakes?

Solar flares and magnetic storms belong to a set of phenomena known collectively as "space weather." Technological systems and the activities of modern civilization can be affected by changing space-weather conditions. However, it has never been demonstrated that there is a causal relationship between space weather and earthquakes. Indeed, over the course of the Sun's 11-year variable cycle, the...

Do solar flares or magnetic storms (space weather) cause earthquakes?

Learn More A schematic depiction of coronal mass ejection headed toward the Earth and its surrounding magnetosphere. Graphic courtesy of NA

What is a magnetic storm? What is a magnetic storm?

A magnetic storm is a period of rapid magnetic field variation. It can last from hours to days. Magnetic storms have two basic causes: The Sun sometimes emits a strong surge of solar wind called a coronal mass ejection. This gust of solar wind disturbs the outer part of the Earth's magnetic field, which undergoes a complex oscillation. This generates associated electric currents in the near-Earth...

What is a magnetic storm?

Learn More Image: Boulder Geomagnetic Observatory

Why measure the magnetic field at the Earth's surface? Wouldn't satellites be better suited for space-weather studies? Why measure the magnetic field at the Earth's surface? Wouldn't satellites be better suited for space-weather studies?

Satellites and ground-based magnetometers are both important for making measurements of the Earth’s magnetic field. They are not redundant but are instead complementary: Satellites provide good geographical coverage for data collection. Ground-based magnetometers are much less expensive and much easier to install than satellites. An array of magnetometers provides coverage from numerous locations...

Why measure the magnetic field at the Earth's surface? Wouldn't satellites be better suited for space-weather studies?

Learn More Earth (Mantle)

Does the Earth's magnetic field affect human health? Does the Earth's magnetic field affect human health?

The Earth's magnetic field does not directly affect human health. Humans evolved to live on this planet. High altitude pilots and astronauts can experience higher levels of radiation during magnetic storms, but the hazard is due to the radiation, not the magnetic field itself. Geomagnetism can also impact the electrically based technology that we rely on, but it does not impact people themselves...

Does the Earth's magnetic field affect human health?

Learn More Chart showing the Earth’s magnetic field

Are we about to have a magnetic reversal? Are we about to have a magnetic reversal?

Almost certainly not. Since the invention of the magnetometer in the 1830s, the average intensity of the magnetic field at the Earth's surface has decreased by about ten percent. We know from paleomagnetic records that the intensity of the magnetic field decreases by as much as ninety percent at the Earth's surface during a reversal. But those same paleomagnetic records also show that the field...

Are we about to have a magnetic reversal?

Learn More Earth-inter and outer core

How does the Earth's core generate a magnetic field? How does the Earth's core generate a magnetic field?

The Earth's outer core is in a state of turbulent convection as the result of radioactive heating and chemical differentiation. This sets up a process that is a bit like a naturally occurring electrical generator, where the convective kinetic energy is converted to electrical and magnetic energy. Basically, the motion of the electrically conducting iron in the presence of the Earth's magnetic...

How does the Earth's core generate a magnetic field?

Learn More Migratory flights simulated by the IBM

Do animals use the magnetic field for orientation? Do animals use the magnetic field for orientation?

Yes. There is evidence that some animals, like sea turtles and salmon, have the ability to sense the Earth's magnetic field (although probably not consciously) and to use this sense for navigation.

Do animals use the magnetic field for orientation?

Yes. There is evidence that some animals, like sea turtles and salmon, have the ability to sense the Earth's magnetic field (although probably not consciously) and to use this sense for navigation.

Learn More Image: Trilobite Fossil (Phacops rana africana)

Do any mass extinctions correlate with magnetic reversals? Do any mass extinctions correlate with magnetic reversals?

No. There is no evidence of a correlation between mass extinctions and magnetic pole reversals. Earth’s magnetic field and its atmosphere protect us from solar radiation. It’s not clear whether a weak magnetic field during a polarity transition would allow enough solar radiation to reach the Earth's surface that it would cause extinctions. But reversals happen rather frequently--every million...

Do any mass extinctions correlate with magnetic reversals?

Learn More Mars Ice

Could magnetic reversals be caused by meteorite or comet impacts? Could magnetic reversals be caused by meteorite or comet impacts?

Although extremely unlikely, it might be possible for a reversal of the Earth's magnetic field to be triggered by a meteorite or comet impact, or even for it to be caused by something more "gentle," such as the melting of the polar ice caps. Self-contained dynamic systems like Earth’s dynamo can have reversals without any outside influence. Reversals of Earth's magnetic field can simply happen...

Could magnetic reversals be caused by meteorite or comet impacts?

Learn More The geomagnetic polarity timescale.

Is it true that Earth's magnetic field occasionally reverses its polarity? Is it true that Earth's magnetic field occasionally reverses its polarity?

Yes. We can see evidence of magnetic polarity reversals by examining the geologic record. When lavas or sediments solidify, they often preserve a signature of the ambient magnetic field at the time of deposition. Incredible as it may seem, the magnetic field occasionally flips over! The geomagnetic poles are currently roughly coincident with the geographic poles, but occasionally the magnetic...

Is it true that Earth's magnetic field occasionally reverses its polarity?

Learn More Image: Northridge, CA Earthquake Damage

Are earthquakes associated with variations in the geomagnetic field? Are earthquakes associated with variations in the geomagnetic field?

Electromagnetic variations have been observed after earthquakes, but despite decades of work, there is no convincing evidence of electromagnetic precursors to earthquakes. It is worth acknowledging that geophysicists would actually love to demonstrate the reality of such precursors, especially if they could be used for reliably predicting earthquakes! Learn more: USGS Geomagnetism Program

Are earthquakes associated with variations in the geomagnetic field?

Learn More Label List Grid

Aurora borealis display evokes the beauty of the Arctic Aurora borealis display evokes the beauty of the Arctic

April 18, 2016

Aurora borealis display evokes the beauty of the Arctic

Aurora borealis display evokes the beauty of the Arctic Aurora borealis display evokes the beauty of the Arctic

Aurora borealis display evokes the beauty of the Arctic, as well as the geomagnetic field intensity actively monitored by USGS scientists.

By Alaska Science Center

April 18, 2016

Aurora borealis display evokes the beauty of the Arctic

Aurora borealis display evokes the beauty of the Arctic, as well as the geomagnetic field intensity actively monitored by USGS scientists.

By Alaska Science Center

Hazards: Geomagnetic Storms Hazards: Geomagnetic Storms

December 16, 2013

Hazards: Geomagnetic Storms

Hazards: Geomagnetic Storms Hazards: Geomagnetic Storms

Space weather can have important consequences for our lives, such as interference with radio communication, GPS systems, electric power grids, the operation and orientation of satellites, oil and gas drilling, and even air travel as high altitude pilots and astronauts can be subjected to enhanced levels of radiation.

By Geomagnetism

December 16, 2013

Hazards: Geomagnetic Storms

By Geomagnetism Image: Sitka Geomagnetic Observatory

Sitka Geomagnetic Observatory Sitka Geomagnetic Observatory Image: Sitka Geomagnetic Observatory

January 28, 2011

Sitka Geomagnetic Observatory

Sitka Geomagnetic Observatory Sitka Geomagnetic Observatory

Sitka, AK.

By Natural Hazards, Communications and Publishing Image: Sitka Geomagnetic Observatory

January 28, 2011

Sitka Geomagnetic Observatory

Sitka, AK.

By Natural Hazards, Communications and Publishing Image: Sitka Geomagnetic Observatory

Sitka Geomagnetic Observatory Sitka Geomagnetic Observatory Image: Sitka Geomagnetic Observatory

January 27, 2011

Sitka Geomagnetic Observatory

Sitka Geomagnetic Observatory Sitka Geomagnetic Observatory

Absolutes building at Sitka magnetic observatory Alaska.

By Natural Hazards, Communications and Publishing Image: Sitka Geomagnetic Observatory

January 27, 2011

Sitka Geomagnetic Observatory

Absolutes building at Sitka magnetic observatory Alaska.

By Natural Hazards, Communications and Publishing Image: Deadhorse Geomagnetic Observatory

Deadhorse Geomagnetic Observatory Deadhorse Geomagnetic Observatory Image: Deadhorse Geomagnetic Observatory

March 1, 2010

Deadhorse Geomagnetic Observatory

Deadhorse Geomagnetic Observatory Deadhorse Geomagnetic Observatory

Commo shack at Deadhorse geomagnetic observatory.

By Natural Hazards, Communications and Publishing Image: Deadhorse Geomagnetic Observatory

March 1, 2010

Deadhorse Geomagnetic Observatory

Commo shack at Deadhorse geomagnetic observatory.

By Natural Hazards, Communications and Publishing Image: Deadhorse Geomagnetic Observatory

Deadhorse Geomagnetic Observatory Deadhorse Geomagnetic Observatory Image: Deadhorse Geomagnetic Observatory

January 1, 2010

Deadhorse Geomagnetic Observatory

Deadhorse Geomagnetic Observatory Deadhorse Geomagnetic Observatory

Absolutes pier curing at Deadhorse geomagnetic observatory.

By Natural Hazards, Communications and Publishing Image: Deadhorse Geomagnetic Observatory

January 1, 2010

Deadhorse Geomagnetic Observatory

Absolutes pier curing at Deadhorse geomagnetic observatory.

By Natural Hazards, Communications and Publishing Image: Boulder Geomagnetic Observatory

Boulder Geomagnetic Observatory Boulder Geomagnetic Observatory Image: Boulder Geomagnetic Observatory

August 31, 2009

Boulder Geomagnetic Observatory

Boulder Geomagnetic Observatory Boulder Geomagnetic Observatory

Jeff Fox using a theodolite at the Boulder geomagnetic observatory.

By Natural Hazards, Communications and Publishing Image: Boulder Geomagnetic Observatory

August 31, 2009

Boulder Geomagnetic Observatory

Jeff Fox using a theodolite at the Boulder geomagnetic observatory.

By Natural Hazards, Communications and Publishing

USGS CoreCast Series USGS CoreCast Series Earth Science Week, Continued: Geomagnetism and the Self-Sustaining Dynamo Called Earth Earth Science Week, Continued: Geomagnetism and the Self-Sustaining Dynamo Called Earth

USGS CoreCast Series USGS CoreCast Series October 16, 2007

Earth Science Week, Continued: Geomagnetism and the Self-Sustaining Dynamo Called Earth

Earth Science Week, Continued: Geomagnetism and the Self-Sustaining Dynamo Called Earth Earth Science Week, Continued: Geomagnetism and the Self-Sustaining Dynamo Called Earth

USGS scientist Duane Champion explains the Earth's geomagnetic qualities and the potential for and possible consequences of a geomagnetic shift.

By Communications and Publishing

USGS CoreCast Series USGS CoreCast Series October 16, 2007

Earth Science Week, Continued: Geomagnetism and the Self-Sustaining Dynamo Called Earth

USGS scientist Duane Champion explains the Earth's geomagnetic qualities and the potential for and possible consequences of a geomagnetic shift.

By Communications and Publishing Items per page 6 12 Label October 16, 2024

The solar cycle, geology, and geoelectric hazards for power grids The solar cycle, geology, and geoelectric hazards for power grids

When sunspots are large and numerous, intense magnetic storms are likely to occur on the Earth. Magnetic storms can generate electric fields in the Earth, and these fields can, in turn, interfere with electric power transmission grids that are grounded at the Earth’s surface. Across the contiguous United States, geoelectric hazards are highest in the Upper Midwest and in the East. These... Authors Jeffrey Love, Steven Sobieszczyk, E. Rigler, Anna Kelbert, Kristen Lewis By Natural Hazards Mission Area, Geomagnetism Program, Geologic Hazards Science Center September 11, 2020

Geomagnetism Program research plan, 2020–2024 Geomagnetism Program research plan, 2020–2024

The Geomagnetism Program of the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) monitors geomagnetic field variation through operation of a network of observatories across the United States and its territories, and it pursues scientific research needed to estimate and assess geomagnetic and geoelectric hazards. Over the next five years (2020–2024 inclusive) and in support of national and agency priorities Authors Jeffrey Love, Anna Kelbert, Benjamin S. Murphy, E. Rigler, Kristen Lewis By Natural Hazards Mission Area, Energy Resources Program, Geomagnetism Program, Central Energy Resources Science Center, Geologic Hazards Science Center June 8, 2018

On the feasibility of real-time mapping of the geoelectric field across North America On the feasibility of real-time mapping of the geoelectric field across North America

A review is given of the present feasibility for accurately mapping geoelectric fields across North America in near-realtime by modeling geomagnetic monitoring and magnetotelluric survey data. Should this capability be successfully developed, it could inform utility companies of magnetic-storm interference on electric-power-grid systems. That real-time mapping of geoelectric fields is a... Authors Jeffrey Love, E. Rigler, Anna Kelbert, Carol Finn, Paul Bedrosian, Christopher Balch By Natural Hazards Mission Area, Geomagnetism Program, Geologic Hazards Science Center June 2, 2017

Magnetic monitoring in Saguaro National Park Magnetic monitoring in Saguaro National Park

On a sandy, arid plain, near the Rincon Mountain Visitor Center of Saguaro National Park, tucked in among brittlebush, creosote, and other hardy desert plants, is an unusual type of observatory—a small unmanned station that is used for monitoring the Earth’s variable magnetic field. Named for the nearby city of Tucson, Arizona, the observatory is 1 of 14 that the Geomagnetism Program... Authors Jeffrey Love, Carol Finn, Yesenia Gamez Valdez, Don Swann By Natural Hazards Mission Area, Geomagnetism Program, Geologic Hazards Science Center August 14, 2015

The Boulder magnetic observatory The Boulder magnetic observatory

The Boulder magnetic observatory has, since 1963, been operated by the Geomagnetism Program of the U.S. Geological Survey in accordance with Bureau and national priorities. Data from the observatory are used for a wide variety of scientific purposes, both pure and applied. The observatory also supports developmental projects within the Geomagnetism Program and collaborative projects with... Authors Jeffrey Love, Carol Finn, Kolby L. Pedrie, Cletus Blum By Natural Hazards Mission Area, Geomagnetism Program, Geologic Hazards Science Center January 1, 2013

U.S. Geological Survey natural hazards science strategy— Promoting the safety, security, and economic well-being of the Nation U.S. Geological Survey natural hazards science strategy— Promoting the safety, security, and economic well-being of the Nation

Executive Summary The mission of the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) in natural hazards is to develop and apply hazard science to help protect the safety, security, and economic well-being of the Nation. The costs and consequences of natural hazards can be enormous, and each year more people and infrastructure are at risk. USGS scientific research—founded on detailed observations and... Authors Robert Holmes, Lucile Jones, Jeffery Eidenshink, Jonathan Godt, Stephen Kirby, Jeffrey Love, Christina A. Neal, Nathaniel Plant, Michael Plunkett, Craig Weaver, Anne Wein, Suzanne Perry By Natural Hazards Mission Area, Earthquake Hazards Program, Geomagnetism Program, Landslide Hazards Program, Earth Resources Observation and Science (EROS) Center , Earthquake Science Center, Geologic Hazards Science Center February 9, 2008

Monitoring the Earth's dynamic magnetic field Monitoring the Earth's dynamic magnetic field

The mission of the U.S. Geological Survey's Geomagnetism Program is to monitor the Earth's magnetic field. Using ground-based observatories, the Program provides continuous records of magnetic field variations covering long timescales; disseminates magnetic data to various governmental, academic, and private institutions; and conducts research into the nature of geomagnetic variations... Authors Jeffrey Love, David Applegate, John Townshend By Natural Hazards Mission Area, Geomagnetism Program, Geologic Hazards Science Center January 1, 1997

On the watch for geomagnetic storms On the watch for geomagnetic storms

Geomagnetic storms, induced by solar activity, pose significant hazards to satellites, electrical power distribution systems, radio communications, navigation, and geophysical surveys. Strong storms can expose astronauts and crews of high-flying aircraft to dangerous levels of radiation. Economic losses from recent geomagnetic storms have run into hundreds of millions of dollars. With... Authors Arthur Green, William Brown By Natural Hazards Mission Area, Geomagnetism Program, Geologic Hazards Science Center Items per page 6 12 Label What a Solar Superstorm Could Mean for the US December 10, 2025

What a Solar Superstorm Could Mean for the US

If a geomagnetic storm as large as the famed “Carrington Event” of 1859 were to occur today, it could adversely affect telecommunications and electric...

Read Article Recently completed geophysical survey will help protect critical infrastructure from geomagnetic storms and space weather August 8, 2024

Recently completed geophysical survey will help protect critical infrastructure from geomagnetic storms and space weather

GOLDEN, Col. — After nearly two decades of data collection, the first-ever nationwide survey of Earth’s electrical conductivity is available.

Read Article 5 Geomagnetic Storms That Reshaped Society July 9, 2024

5 Geomagnetic Storms That Reshaped Society

Geomagnetic storms can damage Earth-orbiting satellites, interfere with radio communication, cause blackouts, and damage high-voltage transformers. We...

Read Article Space Weather and Magnetic Storms: Invaders from Outer Space…Sort Of July 20, 2022

Space Weather and Magnetic Storms: Invaders from Outer Space…Sort Of

While major geomagnetic storms are rare, with only a few recorded per century, there is significant potential for large-scale impacts when they do...

Read Article New U.S. Geological Survey Report Assesses Risk of Once-Per-Century Geomagnetic Superstorm to the Northeastern United States March 5, 2019

New U.S. Geological Survey Report Assesses Risk of Once-Per-Century Geomagnetic Superstorm to the Northeastern United States

A new report and map published by the U.S. Geological Survey provides critical insight to electric power grid operators across the northeastern United...

Read Article New 3D Measurements Improve Understanding of Geomagnetic Storm Hazards March 8, 2018

New 3D Measurements Improve Understanding of Geomagnetic Storm Hazards

Measurements of the three-dimensional structure of the earth, as opposed to the one-dimensional models typically used, can help scientists more...

Read Article Mapping a Space-Weather Menace to Electric-Power Grids September 12, 2016

Mapping a Space-Weather Menace to Electric-Power Grids

New strides have been made toward quantifying how geomagnetic storms can interfere with the nation’s electric-power grid systems.

Read Article Getting Down to Earth with Space Hazards January 7, 2016

Getting Down to Earth with Space Hazards

Magnetic storms can interfere with the operation of electric power grids and damage grid infrastructure. They can also disrupt directional drilling...

Read Article

FAQ Items per page 6 12 Label dark space with golden solar flare

Do solar flares or magnetic storms (space weather) cause earthquakes? Do solar flares or magnetic storms (space weather) cause earthquakes?

Do solar flares or magnetic storms (space weather) cause earthquakes?

Learn More A schematic depiction of coronal mass ejection headed toward the Earth and its surrounding magnetosphere. Graphic courtesy of NA

What is a magnetic storm? What is a magnetic storm?

What is a magnetic storm?

Learn More Image: Boulder Geomagnetic Observatory

Why measure the magnetic field at the Earth's surface? Wouldn't satellites be better suited for space-weather studies? Why measure the magnetic field at the Earth's surface? Wouldn't satellites be better suited for space-weather studies?

Why measure the magnetic field at the Earth's surface? Wouldn't satellites be better suited for space-weather studies?

Learn More Earth (Mantle)

Does the Earth's magnetic field affect human health? Does the Earth's magnetic field affect human health?

Does the Earth's magnetic field affect human health?

Learn More Chart showing the Earth’s magnetic field

Are we about to have a magnetic reversal? Are we about to have a magnetic reversal?

Are we about to have a magnetic reversal?

Learn More Earth-inter and outer core

How does the Earth's core generate a magnetic field? How does the Earth's core generate a magnetic field?

How does the Earth's core generate a magnetic field?

Learn More Migratory flights simulated by the IBM

Do animals use the magnetic field for orientation? Do animals use the magnetic field for orientation?

Yes. There is evidence that some animals, like sea turtles and salmon, have the ability to sense the Earth's magnetic field (although probably not consciously) and to use this sense for navigation.

Do animals use the magnetic field for orientation?

Yes. There is evidence that some animals, like sea turtles and salmon, have the ability to sense the Earth's magnetic field (although probably not consciously) and to use this sense for navigation.

Learn More Image: Trilobite Fossil (Phacops rana africana)

Do any mass extinctions correlate with magnetic reversals? Do any mass extinctions correlate with magnetic reversals?

Do any mass extinctions correlate with magnetic reversals?

Learn More Mars Ice

Could magnetic reversals be caused by meteorite or comet impacts? Could magnetic reversals be caused by meteorite or comet impacts?

Could magnetic reversals be caused by meteorite or comet impacts?

Learn More The geomagnetic polarity timescale.

Is it true that Earth's magnetic field occasionally reverses its polarity? Is it true that Earth's magnetic field occasionally reverses its polarity?

Is it true that Earth's magnetic field occasionally reverses its polarity?

Learn More Image: Northridge, CA Earthquake Damage

Are earthquakes associated with variations in the geomagnetic field? Are earthquakes associated with variations in the geomagnetic field?

Are earthquakes associated with variations in the geomagnetic field?

Learn More Multimedia Label List Grid

Aurora borealis display evokes the beauty of the Arctic Aurora borealis display evokes the beauty of the Arctic

April 18, 2016

Aurora borealis display evokes the beauty of the Arctic

Aurora borealis display evokes the beauty of the Arctic Aurora borealis display evokes the beauty of the Arctic

Aurora borealis display evokes the beauty of the Arctic, as well as the geomagnetic field intensity actively monitored by USGS scientists.

By Alaska Science Center

April 18, 2016

Aurora borealis display evokes the beauty of the Arctic

Aurora borealis display evokes the beauty of the Arctic, as well as the geomagnetic field intensity actively monitored by USGS scientists.

By Alaska Science Center

Hazards: Geomagnetic Storms Hazards: Geomagnetic Storms

December 16, 2013

Hazards: Geomagnetic Storms

Hazards: Geomagnetic Storms Hazards: Geomagnetic Storms

By Geomagnetism

December 16, 2013

Hazards: Geomagnetic Storms

By Geomagnetism Image: Sitka Geomagnetic Observatory

Sitka Geomagnetic Observatory Sitka Geomagnetic Observatory Image: Sitka Geomagnetic Observatory

January 28, 2011

Sitka Geomagnetic Observatory

Sitka Geomagnetic Observatory Sitka Geomagnetic Observatory

Sitka, AK.

By Natural Hazards, Communications and Publishing Image: Sitka Geomagnetic Observatory

January 28, 2011

Sitka Geomagnetic Observatory

Sitka, AK.

By Natural Hazards, Communications and Publishing Image: Sitka Geomagnetic Observatory

Sitka Geomagnetic Observatory Sitka Geomagnetic Observatory Image: Sitka Geomagnetic Observatory

January 27, 2011

Sitka Geomagnetic Observatory

Sitka Geomagnetic Observatory Sitka Geomagnetic Observatory

Absolutes building at Sitka magnetic observatory Alaska.

By Natural Hazards, Communications and Publishing Image: Sitka Geomagnetic Observatory

January 27, 2011

Sitka Geomagnetic Observatory

Absolutes building at Sitka magnetic observatory Alaska.

By Natural Hazards, Communications and Publishing Image: Deadhorse Geomagnetic Observatory

Deadhorse Geomagnetic Observatory Deadhorse Geomagnetic Observatory Image: Deadhorse Geomagnetic Observatory

March 1, 2010

Deadhorse Geomagnetic Observatory

Deadhorse Geomagnetic Observatory Deadhorse Geomagnetic Observatory

Commo shack at Deadhorse geomagnetic observatory.

By Natural Hazards, Communications and Publishing Image: Deadhorse Geomagnetic Observatory

March 1, 2010

Deadhorse Geomagnetic Observatory

Commo shack at Deadhorse geomagnetic observatory.

By Natural Hazards, Communications and Publishing Image: Deadhorse Geomagnetic Observatory

Deadhorse Geomagnetic Observatory Deadhorse Geomagnetic Observatory Image: Deadhorse Geomagnetic Observatory

January 1, 2010

Deadhorse Geomagnetic Observatory

Deadhorse Geomagnetic Observatory Deadhorse Geomagnetic Observatory

Absolutes pier curing at Deadhorse geomagnetic observatory.

By Natural Hazards, Communications and Publishing Image: Deadhorse Geomagnetic Observatory

January 1, 2010

Deadhorse Geomagnetic Observatory

Absolutes pier curing at Deadhorse geomagnetic observatory.

By Natural Hazards, Communications and Publishing Image: Boulder Geomagnetic Observatory

Boulder Geomagnetic Observatory Boulder Geomagnetic Observatory Image: Boulder Geomagnetic Observatory

August 31, 2009

Boulder Geomagnetic Observatory

Boulder Geomagnetic Observatory Boulder Geomagnetic Observatory

Jeff Fox using a theodolite at the Boulder geomagnetic observatory.

By Natural Hazards, Communications and Publishing Image: Boulder Geomagnetic Observatory

August 31, 2009

Boulder Geomagnetic Observatory

Jeff Fox using a theodolite at the Boulder geomagnetic observatory.

By Natural Hazards, Communications and Publishing

USGS CoreCast Series USGS CoreCast Series October 16, 2007

Earth Science Week, Continued: Geomagnetism and the Self-Sustaining Dynamo Called Earth

Earth Science Week, Continued: Geomagnetism and the Self-Sustaining Dynamo Called Earth Earth Science Week, Continued: Geomagnetism and the Self-Sustaining Dynamo Called Earth

USGS scientist Duane Champion explains the Earth's geomagnetic qualities and the potential for and possible consequences of a geomagnetic shift.

By Communications and Publishing

USGS CoreCast Series USGS CoreCast Series October 16, 2007

Earth Science Week, Continued: Geomagnetism and the Self-Sustaining Dynamo Called Earth

USGS scientist Duane Champion explains the Earth's geomagnetic qualities and the potential for and possible consequences of a geomagnetic shift.

By Communications and Publishing Publications Items per page 6 12 Label October 16, 2024

The solar cycle, geology, and geoelectric hazards for power grids The solar cycle, geology, and geoelectric hazards for power grids

Geomagnetism Program research plan, 2020–2024 Geomagnetism Program research plan, 2020–2024

On the feasibility of real-time mapping of the geoelectric field across North America On the feasibility of real-time mapping of the geoelectric field across North America

Magnetic monitoring in Saguaro National Park Magnetic monitoring in Saguaro National Park

The Boulder magnetic observatory The Boulder magnetic observatory

U.S. Geological Survey natural hazards science strategy— Promoting the safety, security, and economic well-being of the Nation U.S. Geological Survey natural hazards science strategy— Promoting the safety, security, and economic well-being of the Nation

Monitoring the Earth's dynamic magnetic field Monitoring the Earth's dynamic magnetic field

On the watch for geomagnetic storms On the watch for geomagnetic storms

Geomagnetic storms, induced by solar activity, pose significant hazards to satellites, electrical power distribution systems, radio communications, navigation, and geophysical surveys. Strong storms can expose astronauts and crews of high-flying aircraft to dangerous levels of radiation. Economic losses from recent geomagnetic storms have run into hundreds of millions of dollars. With... Authors Arthur Green, William Brown By Natural Hazards Mission Area, Geomagnetism Program, Geologic Hazards Science Center News Items per page 6 12 Label What a Solar Superstorm Could Mean for the US December 10, 2025

What a Solar Superstorm Could Mean for the US

If a geomagnetic storm as large as the famed “Carrington Event” of 1859 were to occur today, it could adversely affect telecommunications and electric...

Read Article Recently completed geophysical survey will help protect critical infrastructure from geomagnetic storms and space weather August 8, 2024

Recently completed geophysical survey will help protect critical infrastructure from geomagnetic storms and space weather

GOLDEN, Col. — After nearly two decades of data collection, the first-ever nationwide survey of Earth’s electrical conductivity is available.

Read Article 5 Geomagnetic Storms That Reshaped Society July 9, 2024

5 Geomagnetic Storms That Reshaped Society

Geomagnetic storms can damage Earth-orbiting satellites, interfere with radio communication, cause blackouts, and damage high-voltage transformers. We...

Read Article Space Weather and Magnetic Storms: Invaders from Outer Space…Sort Of July 20, 2022

Space Weather and Magnetic Storms: Invaders from Outer Space…Sort Of

While major geomagnetic storms are rare, with only a few recorded per century, there is significant potential for large-scale impacts when they do...

Read Article New U.S. Geological Survey Report Assesses Risk of Once-Per-Century Geomagnetic Superstorm to the Northeastern United States March 5, 2019

New U.S. Geological Survey Report Assesses Risk of Once-Per-Century Geomagnetic Superstorm to the Northeastern United States

A new report and map published by the U.S. Geological Survey provides critical insight to electric power grid operators across the northeastern United...

Read Article New 3D Measurements Improve Understanding of Geomagnetic Storm Hazards March 8, 2018

New 3D Measurements Improve Understanding of Geomagnetic Storm Hazards

Measurements of the three-dimensional structure of the earth, as opposed to the one-dimensional models typically used, can help scientists more...

Read Article Mapping a Space-Weather Menace to Electric-Power Grids September 12, 2016

Mapping a Space-Weather Menace to Electric-Power Grids

New strides have been made toward quantifying how geomagnetic storms can interfere with the nation’s electric-power grid systems.

Read Article Getting Down to Earth with Space Hazards January 7, 2016

Getting Down to Earth with Space Hazards

Magnetic storms can interfere with the operation of electric power grids and damage grid infrastructure. They can also disrupt directional drilling...

Read Article

Explore Search

Planetary Science
Geomagnetism
Geomagnetism and Space Weather
Magnetic Field
Geomagnetism
Planetary Science

View All Updated Date: December 17, 2025 Was this page helpful?

Tag » What Is A G2 Geomagnetic Storm

Breadcrumb

Related

Do solar flares or magnetic storms (space weather) cause earthquakes? Do solar flares or magnetic storms (space weather) cause earthquakes?

Do solar flares or magnetic storms (space weather) cause earthquakes?

What is a magnetic storm? What is a magnetic storm?

What is a magnetic storm?

Why measure the magnetic field at the Earth's surface? Wouldn't satellites be better suited for space-weather studies? Why measure the magnetic field at the Earth's surface? Wouldn't satellites be better suited for space-weather studies?

Why measure the magnetic field at the Earth's surface? Wouldn't satellites be better suited for space-weather studies?

Does the Earth's magnetic field affect human health? Does the Earth's magnetic field affect human health?

Does the Earth's magnetic field affect human health?

Are we about to have a magnetic reversal? Are we about to have a magnetic reversal?

Are we about to have a magnetic reversal?

How does the Earth's core generate a magnetic field? How does the Earth's core generate a magnetic field?

How does the Earth's core generate a magnetic field?

Do animals use the magnetic field for orientation? Do animals use the magnetic field for orientation?

Do animals use the magnetic field for orientation?

Do any mass extinctions correlate with magnetic reversals? Do any mass extinctions correlate with magnetic reversals?

Do any mass extinctions correlate with magnetic reversals?

Could magnetic reversals be caused by meteorite or comet impacts? Could magnetic reversals be caused by meteorite or comet impacts?

Could magnetic reversals be caused by meteorite or comet impacts?

Is it true that Earth's magnetic field occasionally reverses its polarity? Is it true that Earth's magnetic field occasionally reverses its polarity?

Is it true that Earth's magnetic field occasionally reverses its polarity?

Are earthquakes associated with variations in the geomagnetic field? Are earthquakes associated with variations in the geomagnetic field?

Are earthquakes associated with variations in the geomagnetic field?

Aurora borealis display evokes the beauty of the Arctic

Aurora borealis display evokes the beauty of the Arctic

Aurora borealis display evokes the beauty of the Arctic

Hazards: Geomagnetic Storms

Hazards: Geomagnetic Storms

Hazards: Geomagnetic Storms

Sitka Geomagnetic Observatory

Sitka Geomagnetic Observatory

Sitka Geomagnetic Observatory

Sitka Geomagnetic Observatory

Sitka Geomagnetic Observatory

Sitka Geomagnetic Observatory

Deadhorse Geomagnetic Observatory

Deadhorse Geomagnetic Observatory

Deadhorse Geomagnetic Observatory

Deadhorse Geomagnetic Observatory

Deadhorse Geomagnetic Observatory

Deadhorse Geomagnetic Observatory

Boulder Geomagnetic Observatory

Boulder Geomagnetic Observatory

Boulder Geomagnetic Observatory

Earth Science Week, Continued: Geomagnetism and the Self-Sustaining Dynamo Called Earth

Earth Science Week, Continued: Geomagnetism and the Self-Sustaining Dynamo Called Earth

Earth Science Week, Continued: Geomagnetism and the Self-Sustaining Dynamo Called Earth

The solar cycle, geology, and geoelectric hazards for power grids The solar cycle, geology, and geoelectric hazards for power grids

Geomagnetism Program research plan, 2020–2024 Geomagnetism Program research plan, 2020–2024

On the feasibility of real-time mapping of the geoelectric field across North America On the feasibility of real-time mapping of the geoelectric field across North America

Magnetic monitoring in Saguaro National Park Magnetic monitoring in Saguaro National Park

The Boulder magnetic observatory The Boulder magnetic observatory

U.S. Geological Survey natural hazards science strategy— Promoting the safety, security, and economic well-being of the Nation U.S. Geological Survey natural hazards science strategy— Promoting the safety, security, and economic well-being of the Nation

Monitoring the Earth's dynamic magnetic field Monitoring the Earth's dynamic magnetic field

On the watch for geomagnetic storms On the watch for geomagnetic storms

What a Solar Superstorm Could Mean for the US

Recently completed geophysical survey will help protect critical infrastructure from geomagnetic storms and space weather

5 Geomagnetic Storms That Reshaped Society

Space Weather and Magnetic Storms: Invaders from Outer Space…Sort Of

New U.S. Geological Survey Report Assesses Risk of Once-Per-Century Geomagnetic Superstorm to the Northeastern United States

New 3D Measurements Improve Understanding of Geomagnetic Storm Hazards

Mapping a Space-Weather Menace to Electric-Power Grids

Getting Down to Earth with Space Hazards

Related

Do solar flares or magnetic storms (space weather) cause earthquakes? Do solar flares or magnetic storms (space weather) cause earthquakes?

Do solar flares or magnetic storms (space weather) cause earthquakes?

What is a magnetic storm? What is a magnetic storm?

What is a magnetic storm?

Why measure the magnetic field at the Earth's surface? Wouldn't satellites be better suited for space-weather studies? Why measure the magnetic field at the Earth's surface? Wouldn't satellites be better suited for space-weather studies?

Why measure the magnetic field at the Earth's surface? Wouldn't satellites be better suited for space-weather studies?

Does the Earth's magnetic field affect human health? Does the Earth's magnetic field affect human health?

Does the Earth's magnetic field affect human health?

Are we about to have a magnetic reversal? Are we about to have a magnetic reversal?

Are we about to have a magnetic reversal?

How does the Earth's core generate a magnetic field? How does the Earth's core generate a magnetic field?

How does the Earth's core generate a magnetic field?

Do animals use the magnetic field for orientation? Do animals use the magnetic field for orientation?

Do animals use the magnetic field for orientation?

Do any mass extinctions correlate with magnetic reversals? Do any mass extinctions correlate with magnetic reversals?