Peru recorded three solar flares in 72 hoursgenerating a severe geomagnetic stormreported the Geophysical Institute of Peru (IGP). The phenomenon is part of the solar cycle, but its frequency in such a short time has attracted attention because of the possible impact on technological systems.
The outbreaks occurred between November 9 and 11 and were detected by the IGP observatory in Hikamark. Every event is released high energy particles that increased the speed of the solar windputting more pressure on the Earth’s magnetic field.
The IGP confirmed that this increase resulted in a Geomagnetic storm category G4one of the most intense on the scale. This type of disturbance can temporarily alter the planet’s magnetic environment and cause disruptions to services sensitive to solar activity.
Solar flares affect communications
By the time the storm reached a the magnetic interference index is eighta level that can affect radio communications and satellite navigation. Specialists noted that these effects may appear irregularly, depending on the location and intensity of the solar flux.
Monitoring is kept active Jicamarca Ionospheric Radar and Specialized Equipment which allow detecting changes in the ionosphere. This observation helps to anticipate possible failures in GPS systems and communication frequencies used by different sectors.
The IGP reminded that storms of this type have already been caused technological failures in other countriesfor example, changing the route of agricultural machinery using GPS. Therefore, the institution will continue continuous monitoring and provide information in case of any relevant changes.
