Dennis Quaid discusses the catastrophic consequences of a solar storm hitting the Earth's magnetic field. They explore the vulnerability of the power grid and the need for protection. They also discuss the importance of safeguarding electoral infrastructure. They talk about their involvement in the movie 'Grid Down Power Up' and reminisce about a memorable movie role. They compare the movie-making process in the past and present. They share their experiences in Svalbard and their passion for music and songwriting.
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Quick takeaways
A solar storm could potentially fry the entire power grid, leading to widespread damage and loss of infrastructure, emphasizing the need for protective measures.
An electromagnetic pulse (EMP) attack could cause similar grid failure, highlighting the importance of urgency and action to secure the grid against such attacks.
Deep dives
The Threat of a Solar Storm
Dennis Quaid discusses his project, 'Grid Down Power Up,' which highlights the vulnerability of our power grid to solar storms. Quaid explains how a solar storm could fry everything electrical above ground, including the entire grid. He cites the Carrington event of 1859, which fried the telegraph system, as an example of the potential devastation such a storm could cause. Quaid emphasizes the need for protective measures, such as installing protective relays in transformers, to prevent widespread damage and loss of infrastructure.
The Impact of a Grid Failure
Quaid highlights the catastrophic consequences of a grid failure caused by a solar storm. He explains that without electricity, society would collapse, with no access to water, gas, or food. He mentions the prediction that within a year, about 90% of the population would die from starvation or diseases. Quaid stresses the importance of understanding the seriousness of this threat and the need for education and action to protect the grid and society.
The Risk of Electromagnetic Pulse Attacks
In addition to solar storms, Quaid discusses the danger of electromagnetic pulse (EMP) attacks from adversaries or terrorists. He explains that a super EMP, caused by detonating a nuclear bomb at a high altitude, could have devastating effects similar to a solar storm, taking out the grid for months or even a year. Quaid raises concerns about the ease with which a terror group or rogue nation could execute such an attack, leading to widespread power outages and chaos.
The Need for Urgent Action and Preparedness
Quaid emphasizes the need for urgency and action to protect the power grid. He suggests implementing protective measures, similar to surge protectors, in substations and transformers. Quaid calls for a focused effort, likening it to a 'Manhattan project,' to cut through bureaucratic red tape and allocate resources for securing the grid. He also advocates for public education about the grid's vulnerability and the potential consequences of a failure. Quaid concludes by stressing the importance of unity, education, and finding ways to unite as Americans to secure the future of the nation.