Berlin [Germany], December 17: Geomagnetic storms caused by solar eruptions are expected to hit the earth this weekend, possibly affecting radio communications in certain areas, the US Space Weather Prediction Center reported on Saturday.
The storms expected are of the categories G1 (minor) and G2 (moderate) effects. An earth-directed component was expected around midday to late on Saturday Coordinated Universal Time (UTC) the center said. Effects should continue into Sunday.
G2 storms could lead to the orientation of spacecraft having to be corrected, the center said. In addition, certain wireless communication in higher latitudes could be affected.
Power transformers could also be damaged, and auroras (northern lights) could also be observed well to the south of the polar region. The storms are caused by so-called "coronal mass ejections" that occurred on Thursday and Friday. (DPA)
Source: Qatar Tribune
