Posted: Tue, May 17, 2005, 8:32 AM ET (1232 GMT)
Powerful solar activity has triggered a geomagnetic storm that may hamper radio communications and other activity, scientists said this week. The May 15 geomagnetic storm measured a 9 on the 0-to-9 "K-index", which rates deviations in the Earth's magnetic field. Such storms can interfere with radio communications and satellite navigation signals, as well as disrupt power grids, although there have been no reports of major power outages linked to the storm. Conditions are expected to subside over the next few days.

Related Links:

•  Florida Today article
•  NOAA advisory