Montgomery, Alabama – A rare G4 (Severe) solar storm is expected to impact Earth on Jan. 20, prompting increased monitoring of Alabama’s power grid and critical technology systems as federal space weather officials track incoming solar activity.
According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s Space Weather Prediction Center, a coronal mass ejection (CME) launched from the Sun late last week is forecast to arrive late Sunday into Monday. G4-level geomagnetic storms are uncommon and can interfere with power transmission systems, satellite operations, GPS accuracy, and some radio communications, particularly across large regional electrical networks.
Alabama’s role within the Southeastern power grid and its proximity to the Tennessee Valley Authority system, combined with military installations, aerospace facilities, and manufacturing centers, increases the importance of grid reliability during severe space weather events. While the state lies south of the most geomagnetically exposed regions, NOAA officials emphasize that widespread power outages are not expected, though utilities may take precautionary actions to protect sensitive equipment.
For most residents, the solar storm itself will not be noticeable. Experts explain that geomagnetic activity can introduce electrical currents into long transmission lines, slightly reducing the grid’s margin for error. Grid operators may increase system monitoring, adjust loads, or implement protective measures if conditions intensify.
Cell phone service and internet connectivity are expected to remain largely unaffected. However, minor GPS inaccuracies are possible, particularly affecting aviation operations, military navigation systems, freight logistics, and precision timing used by utilities and emergency services.
As a secondary effect, auroras may be visible across far northern Alabama, especially in rural or higher-elevation areas, if geomagnetic activity strengthens beyond current forecasts.
NOAA forecasters say geomagnetic activity could persist at lower levels into Tuesday.
