What is all this talk about Space Weather?

'Space Weather' describes activity of the sun that affects our solar system. This includes solar flares and 'coronial mass ejections' (CME's). The Sun is in an active period right now (it happens every 11 years or so), and that means there is more chance it will influence technology on Earth. 

Space Weather affects Earth's magnetic field. It is responsible for some of the beautiful auroras seen in some parts of the world (coloured lights in the sky), but it can also interfere with satellites or other technology in space. In more extreme cases, it could affect infrastructure on earth- especially electricity transmission. 

If power transformers and other key parts of electricity generation were damaged, we could have extended power outages. The National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) has been working on a national plan to make sure Aotearoa New Zealand is thinking about the potential effects of space weather (alongside other hazards like earthquakes and tsunami). 

For whanau and individuals, preparing for space weather is similar to general emergency preparedness: Think about how you would manage if you lost power for several days or more, and what you can do ahead of time to make things easier. 

We will have more information on space weather to share with you soon.