Why Preppers Should Pay Attention to Solar Storm Drills
Most people don’t think about solar storms, but these rare space weather events can cause big problems here on Earth. In November 2023, an international group ran the first ever solar storm preparedness drill. This test showed that even emergency services and critical infrastructure are not fully ready for a powerful solar storm. For preppers, this is a wake-up call and a reminder that we must plan for the unexpected, including threats from space.
What Is a Solar Storm and Why Is It Dangerous?
A solar storm happens when the sun sends out a burst of energy, called a geomagnetic storm, that can disrupt Earth's magnetic field. The most famous example is the Carrington Event of 1859. Back then, telegraph lines sparked and failed, and today, a similar event could knock out power grids, satellites, and even water and fuel supplies. The 2023 drill simulated these exact problems, showing just how much we depend on electricity and communication.
Key Weaknesses Found in the Drill
The drill included over 20 countries and tested what would happen if a huge solar storm hit. Here’s what they found:
- Power Outages: Many places weren’t ready for long blackouts. Backup generators only lasted a few days.
- Lost Communication: Cell phones, the internet, and even GPS could go down. Many emergency services had no backup plan for this.
- Poor Coordination: Agencies used different radios and systems, making it hard to share information.
- Critical Services at Risk: Water treatment plants and hospitals could run out of power quickly.
- Public Left in the Dark: With TV, radio, and the internet down, it was hard to get news to people.
Lessons for Preppers: How to Get Ready for a Solar Storm
The drill’s results show that everyone—not just governments—needs to be ready for a big solar storm. As preppers, you can take steps to protect your family and community.
Build Your Own Power Backup
Don’t count on the grid working during a major solar storm. Backup power is vital.
- Invest in a quality generator, and store enough fuel for at least two weeks.
- Consider solar panels with battery storage (remember, these might also be affected in a worst-case event, but are still useful).
- Learn how to safely store and rotate fuel for emergencies.
- Have plenty of batteries for flashlights, radios, and medical devices.
Stay Connected Without Phones or Internet
Communication can save lives. If cell towers and internet go down, you’ll need other ways to talk to people.
- Get a battery-powered or crank emergency radio to receive weather and emergency alerts.
- Learn to use walkie-talkies or ham radios; they can work when other systems fail.
- Print out important contacts, maps, and emergency plans so you don’t rely on your phone.
Protect Water, Food, and Medicine
If power is lost, water systems and grocery stores may stop working. Make sure you have enough supplies.
- Store at least one gallon of water per person per day for two weeks.
- Stock up on shelf-stable foods that don’t need cooking.
- Keep a supply of any necessary medicines, and know how to store them safely without refrigeration.
- Have water purification tablets or filters in case you need to use another water source.
Plan for No News or Updates
If TV, radio, and online news are down, you’ll need other ways to get information.
- Have local maps and printed emergency instructions ready.
- Establish a meeting place with family and neighbors before disaster strikes.
- Join or start a local prepping group to share information and resources.
Practice and Train Regularly
The drill showed that many responders weren’t trained for a rare event like a solar storm. Practice makes perfect.
- Hold regular family drills for power outages and other emergencies.
- Practice using backup radios and generators so everyone knows what to do.
- Teach your family first aid and basic survival skills.
Work Together to Build Community Resilience
No one can handle a big disaster alone. The report stressed the need for cooperation between families, neighbors, and local groups.
- Meet with neighbors to discuss emergency plans and how to help each other.
- Support local efforts to improve power grid and water system resilience.
- Encourage your community to have backup communication plans, like local ham radio networks or community bulletin boards.
Take Action Now—Don’t Wait for the Next Drill
The chance of a powerful solar storm is low, but the damage could be huge. The recent drill showed that even the experts have a lot of work to do. Preparedness is everyone’s responsibility.
- Update your emergency plans to include solar storms and long-term power outages.
- Invest in backup systems and supplies now, before prices go up or shortages happen.
- Stay informed about space weather and warning systems.
If you take these steps, you’ll be ready to keep your family safe and help your community if a major solar storm ever hits. Preparedness means peace of mind—start today!