There was a power cut early in the week in Baxenden, according to our microwave it lasted something like 5 hours during the night.
Perhaps that was solar flares as well?
However, one must look at electrical equipment in general - switches burn out, kettles, cookers, showers and even light bulbs and batteries fail at some stage.
If you are concerned that it is solar activity then it seems obvious to revert back to oil lamps, primus stoves and candles - or even rush lights.
