Solar Storms Could Cause Train Signal Malfunctions, Study Finds

Space weather events could trigger faults in UK rail signalling systems every few decades, posing a significant safety risk.

Researchers from Lancaster University have found that solar storms could cause train signals to switch from red to green, posing a significant safety risk.
Geomagnetically induced currents (GICs) from solar storms could interfere with electricity transmission and distribution grids, potentially affecting rail signalling systems.
The study modelled two routes, the Preston to Lancaster section of the West Coast Main Line, and the Glasgow to Edinburgh line, to understand how GICs could cause rail signalling malfunctions.
Space weather events capable of triggering faults in these track circuits are expected in the UK every few decades.
Extreme space weather events, such as the 1859 Carrington Event, could cause widespread problems with train signals.