Natalia Buzulukova
University of Maryland Astronomy Department & NASA GSFC Geospace Physics Laboratory
Geomagnetic storms and extreme space weather
As the current solar cycle progresses, interactions between coronal mass ejections (CMEs) and the Earth's magnetosphere are driving large geomagnetic storms, resulting in spectacular low-latitude auroras. Geomagnetic storms are a key aspect of space weather - events characterized by variations in solar, ionospheric, thermospheric, or magnetospheric parameters that can degrade technological systems or pose risks to human health. This talk explores the relationship between extreme space weather and geomagnetic storms, examines solar origins of extreme events, and presents current statistical insights on extremes. Historically, before the space age, severe geomagnetic storms were the most prominent manifestations of extreme space weather, often generating intense geomagnetically induced currents (GICs) in ground-based infrastructure, including power grids. However, with advancements in technology, the definition of extreme space weather continues to evolve. We analyze some historical space weather events, as well as the notable 2024 events, to identify emerging trends and their potential impacts on modern infrastructure.