Posted on 01/08/2009 4:57:24 PM PST by 2ndDivisionVet
A new study from the National Academy of Sciences outlines grim possibilities on Earth for a worst-case scenario solar storm.
Damage to power grids and other communications systems could be catastrophic, the scientists conclude, with effects leading to a potential loss of governmental control of the situation.
The prediction is based in part on major solar storm in 1859 caused telegraph wires to short out in the United States and Europe, igniting widespread fires.
It was perhaps the worst in the past 200 years, according to the new study, and with the advent of modern power grids and satellites, much more is at risk.
"A contemporary repetition of the [1859] event would cause significantly more extensive (and possibly catastrophic) social and economic disruptions," the researchers conclude.
When the sun is in the active phase of its 11-year cycle, it can unleash powerful magnetic storms that disable satellites, threaten astronaut safety, and even disrupt communication systems on Earth.
The worst storms can knock out power grids by inducing currents that melt transformers.
Modern power grids are so interconnected that a big space storm the type expected to occur about once a century could cause a cascade of failures that would sweep across the United States, cutting power to 130 million people or more in this country alone, the new report concludes.
Such widespread power outages, though expected to be a rare possibility, would affect other vital systems.
(Excerpt) Read more at foxnews.com ...
The good news is that Liberals will be most likely to die from any disruption of the technological base that has been built. They cannot live off of their wits, since they have none to speak of. They fear weaponry, so they’ll be easy pickings should there be a need to take a severe survival route. Government won’t be there to direct them. Ahhhh, to be conservative in a meltdown of civilization.
I suppose it depends on the local chapter. Around here, it hasn't aged well. A typical MENSA meeting looks like a night at a retirement home.
I renew my membership every year for one reason: if a client (sarcastically) asks if I'm a member , I can say: "Yes, I am. But that's not relevant here."
US. It won’t shut down Canada or South America, hunh? Clearly Bush’s fault.
coronal-mass-ejection alert.
Goodie, something worth watching on t.v.
I get all the high def right here.
This is a recurring bit of hysteria. Last tie the subjext came up was 11 yrs ago and 11 yrs before that, etc.
“”Been to MENSA meetings.
I can promise you there is no one there looking like that.””
They all look smarter at closing time.
Sunspots made me misspell my words. We need a law banning Solar storms and all will be right with the world.
Bump
Sounds like Katrina!
I agree that the hysterical doomsday stuff is annoying but why not be prepared? I have a family to think about.
Three propane tanks for the grill, extra fuel, water, plenty of ammo, and enough stored food to last 45-60 days seems pretty reasonable to me.
I consider it another form of insurance.
I’m just curious who paid for this study?
And for anyone that has half a clue this has been common knowledge since the 70’s. So how is this news?
JB
It would be good to have a vehicle that was built before electronic ignition also. I think the old clunkers will still run.
Keep those old tube-radio sets in good condition.
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Check.
I agree being prepared is always a good idea. If not solar activity,there are other credible threats such as natural disasters or potential civil disturbances. I’m glad to hear you have things ready for your family.
Just don’t forget the extra TP and extra blankets, ;)
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