The Katrina of Space

In 2013, the next solar cycle is expected by NASA to peak [read more]. There has been some debate over the past few years as to whether or not this storm will be critically intense, or lackluster (much to our luck!).

Solar storms have the capacity to cripple power grids, destroy electrons, and shatter the intricate system of cross-planet communication we have set up, via the use of satellites. It is for this reason that astronomers and their governments across the world believe it is imperative to obtain a level of general cohesion between countries and have formed an international committee to monitor solar weather conditions.

(Diagram courtesy of NASA, depicting solar material circulation patterns) 

At this point in our technological advances, a large and severe solar storm would yield particularly catastrophic effects on the human species. Having built our entire habitat and niche from electronic technology, we have placed ourselves in an extremely vulnerable position. Medical care, in particular, is at risk.

The question is: when is the appropriate time to prepare? Who should lead this effort?
The answer, in my mind, is a question itself: if not now, then when?  If not us, then who? This is not the appropriate time for us to sit and ponder who is responsible.
We're all human. We're all affected. We need to get the ball rolling much faster than it is...