From MSNBC.COM:

Scientists worry about solar superstorm

Sun capable of unleashing geomagnetic blast that could cost tens of billions

By Leonard David

BOULDER, Colo. - Californians have long been bracing for the “big one” in terms of an earthquake. But the sun lobs flares that are the most violent events in the solar system. A large flare releases a million times more energy than the largest earthquake.

The relative void between the sun and Earth is loaded with electrically charged particles, radiation, magnetic fields and electromagnetic energy. The effects of this space weather can range from damage to satellites to disruption of power grids on Earth.

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