The Carrington Event: New Zealand’s Narrow Escape from Disaster
In the summer of 1859, the world witnessed the largest solar storm ever recorded. Named after British astronomer Richard Carrington, the Carrington Event spanned August to September of that year, causing a spectacular display of auroras visible as far south as Cuba and as far north as Chile. While other countries with telegraph machines experienced damaging effects, New Zealand remained relatively unscathed due to its lack of advanced technology at the time.
Eyewitness accounts from New Zealand newspapers, like the Taranaki Herald, described the auroras as a “vast and magnificent flood of rosy and half fiery light,” captivating the imagination of those who witnessed the unusual phenomenon. Despite the lack of understanding about the cause of these auroras, with theories ranging from electric and magnetic influences to the conveyance of electricity from the poles to the equator, New Zealanders marveled at the rare occurrence of the Aurora Australis.
Fast forward to the present day, where the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) has released an official plan for responding to space weather events. The risks posed by solar storms to infrastructure and society are now well-documented, with potential disruptions to the electricity grid, satellite communications, and cellular networks. While AM radio is expected to remain operational during such events, other critical services may be affected, leading to power outages, disruptions in communication, and challenges in accessing essential resources like food and water.
As experts warn of increased solar activity during the sun’s solar maximum phase, occurring every 11 years, NEMA advises the public to be prepared for potential disruptions by stocking up on food, checking emergency kits, and being ready to spend a few days off-grid. With the threat of space weather looming, it’s essential for individuals to stay informed and take proactive measures to ensure their safety and well-being in the face of future solar storms.