This research article focuses on the potential hazards caused by geoelectric fields in Ireland. Geoelectric fields are electric fields created at the Earth's surface during geomagnetic storms. These fields can trigger electrical currents, known as geomagnetically induced currents (GIC), in infrastructure like power grids, railways, and pipelines, which can cause significant issues.
The team behind this study has developed the first geoelectric field hazard map for Ireland. This map aims to provide useful information to those involved in infrastructure planning and management, helping them to mitigate the impact of GICs.
The research found that certain areas - namely the northern coast, and the west and southwest of Ireland - are more likely to experience large geoelectric fields. It was also discovered that these electric fields have a strong directional component. This means that the hazardous effects of geoelectric fields could be more significant if the infrastructure, such as power networks, are aligned in the same direction as the field.