Solar Chaos: 10 Critical Things to Do During a Coronal Mass Ejection Blackout
1. Unplug All Electronics Immediately
If you're lucky enough to catch warning signs (radio static, grid surges, GPS failure), unplug everything. CME-induced currents can fry circuits in seconds.
2. Switch to Battery or Hand-Crank Radios
Grid power and internet may be gone, but NOAA and emergency services may still broadcast shortwave updates. Keep a battery-powered or crank radio on hand.
3. Fill All Water Containers
Municipal water pressure relies on electric pumps. Quickly fill bathtubs, jugs, and sinks. Assume you’ll be without running water within hours.
4. Secure Cash and Hard Copies
With banks and ATMs offline, credit cards are useless. Use cash for essentials and keep printed copies of ID, maps, and emergency contacts.
5. Prepare for Extended Power Loss
CMEs can cause widespread transformer damage that takes weeks or months to repair. Treat this as a long-term grid-down event. Think solar, batteries, or hand tools.
6. Establish Local Communication Channels
Without cell towers, talk to neighbors and establish a check-in system. Two-way radios or ham radios may be your only link to others.
7. Ration Perishable Food Immediately
Refrigerators will begin to warm within hours. Prioritize eating perishables first, and don’t open freezers unnecessarily. Have coolers or ice packs ready.
8. Stay Indoors at Night
With lights out across the region, crime and confusion rise quickly. Keep a low profile, use blackout curtains, and avoid drawing attention to yourself.
9. Protect Vehicles & Generators
Some CMEs can damage unshielded car electronics. Park in garages if possible and disconnect non-essential electrical components. Use generators cautiously and sparingly.
10. Stay Calm and Avoid Panic Zones
Gas stations, big-box stores, and major intersections will be chaos. Avoid crowds. If you’re already prepared, stay put and focus on security and conservation.
A CME blackout isn’t just another storm—it’s a silent, invisible threat that can plunge the modern world back into the 1800s in an instant. By knowing what to do the moment the grid goes dark, you give yourself and your family the edge to endure the chaos and come out stronger on the other side.
