Solar Storms

We just got hit with another CME from the sun. It wasn’t too strong, but the earth’s magnetic field is weak right now. That causes the impact to be stronger than it normally would. There were some electrical fires related to the solar storm. My information indicates that it was only 5 to 10% of the strength needed to end civilizations. 

The end of electrical devices and electronics would definitely squash our civilization. Some parts of the world would do better than others. Mostly that would be “backwards” areas of our planet -places that haven’t changed much in hundreds of years. If you haven’t climbed too far the fall won’t hurt you much.

I think of places like Dubai or Phoenix. Without modern technology the land can only support a tiny fraction of their populations. They are extreme examples but most places would suffer huge population losses. 

When you think about it this planet can be a precarious place to run an advanced civilization. At least we are aware of the danger. There are things that can be done to lessen the impact. Plans to protect the grid and modern infrastructure exist, but getting it in place has been haphazard. It’s hard to spend money on an invisible threat. 

On an individual basis all you can do is prepare with the basics of water, food, shelter and security. 

About that security issue. After a CME the vast majority of firearms will still function. Guess what happens when you don’t have the basics of survival yet have a gun and ammo? That could be interesting and I hope we never get to see that sort itself out. 

On a side note I’m a little miffed that we’ve had cloudy weather every night when there are northern lights. If we are going to have a CME I’d at least like to have a good view of the pretty lights.

-Sixbears