• A_A@lemmy.world
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    2 days ago

    i searched this topic a little bit to see what could be the worst consequences at ground level and the worst I found ((much smaller than what was described by another user @givesomefucks here)) was this :

    spoiler

    Ground-induced electric fields

    https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Space_weather#Effects

    Magnetic storm activity can induce geoelectric fields in the Earth’s conducting lithosphere.[26] Corresponding voltage differentials can find their way into electric power grids through ground connections, driving uncontrolled electric currents that interfere with grid operation, damage transformers, trip protective relays, and sometimes cause blackouts.[27] This complicated chain of causes and effects was demonstrated during the magnetic storm of March 1989,[28] which caused the complete collapse of the Hydro-Québec electric-power grid in Canada, temporarily leaving nine million people without electricity. The possible occurrence of an even more intense storm[29] led to operational standards intended to mitigate induction-hazard risks, while reinsurance companies commissioned revised risk assessments.[30]

    Here, the collapse of the power grid was not caused by terribly energetic phenomena(s) but rather, lack of oversight about ground fault protection devices … that has been corrected since then.