Power System Disturbances During A K-8 Geomagnetic Storm: August 4, 1972

Solar flares can trigger severe fluctuations in the earth's magnetic field, termed geomagnetic storms. Geomagnetic storms produce quasi-dc currents in 60 Hz electric power systems. These spurious dc currents caused tundesirable equipment and system operating effects. A moderately severe geomagnetic storm occurred on August 4, 1972. The effects of that storm on electric power systems in the continental United States and parts of Canada are documented and related to latitude, geological factors, and intensity of the recorded geomagnetic field variations.