About space weather
Space weather is driven by activity on the surface of the Sun. Storm-like activity can throw out bursts of radiation and solar material towards Earth.
Space weather comes in many different forms such as solar flares, coronal mass ejections, solar radiation storms, and geomagnetic storms.
Space weather poses no direct risk to people or animals. However, while extreme events are rare, they can disrupt or damage critical infrastructure, potentially leading to electricity blackouts and other service interruptions.
Interesting Fact!
Are you prepared for space weather?
Be prepared to experience critical infrastructure failure and disruption. Power cuts and communication loss are possible in space weather events. Be cautious around electrical outlets and unplug major appliances to reduce the power surge and possible damage when power is restored.
Make a list of the appliances to unplug during a power cut. Unplugging appliances can help stop electrical surges when the power turns back on.
Turn off appliances. Unplug or switch off appliances to prevent damage when power returns. Leave one light on so you can see when the power is back on.
Conserve resources. Use water, electricity, and gas sparingly. Avoid open flames or gas appliances indoors to prevent fires or carbon monoxide poisoning.
Conserve food. If the power goes out, eat the food from your fridge first, then your freezer, before you eat the non-perishable food in the cupboard or your emergency kit. Talk to your neighbours about what they’ll do if the power is out. You might find they have a gas BBQ and you have enough food to share (or the other way round).
You can use a radio to stay informed. Phone lines may be disrupted during a space weather event however, battery or solar-powered radios will still work during space weather. If you don’t have a battery or solar-powered radio in your emergency kit, most people have a radio in their car!
Be cautious of power lines, sockets and equipment and treat these as “on.” Rolling power cuts may continue for some time. Switch off appliances when you’re not using them to reduce power surges.
Check food in your fridge or freezer before eating. If it smells funny or looks different, throw it out. Do not refreeze food that has been defrosted.
Stay informed. Follow the advice of your local Civil Defence Emergency Management Group and emergency services.
