Auroras can harm Earth's infrastructure, study warns

A recent study warns that mesmerizing auroras can threaten Earth by damaging critical infrastructure like pipelines through geomagnetically induced currents. The impact angle of interplanetary shocks determines the strength of these currents. Severe geomagnetic storms, like the May 2024 event, can expand the auroral region, causing significant damage. Power infrastructure operators are advised to manage specific electric circuits during shock alerts to prevent equipment damage.