The Impact of Geomagnetically Induced Currents (GIC) on the Mexican Power Grid: Numerical Modeling and Observations From the 10 May 2024, Geomagnetic Storm

Abstract

Abstract This study examines the impact of the 10 May 2024, geomagnetic storm on the Mexican power grid, utilizing geomagnetically induced currents (GIC), measurements and regional magnetic field data recorded by the Laboratorio Nacional de Clima Espacial. Significant GIC were observed at three different locations within the grid. The observations were complemented with estimates for the Mexican power grid provided by a numerical model developed in late 2022. Our findings suggest that the GIC can pose a potential threat to low‐latitude power grids during extreme geomagnetic disturbances. Furthermore, the model demonstrates its potential to forecast the grid response during these events, providing critical insight into the behavior of the electrical grid during extreme space weather events.