In article ,
(Rich) writes:

Hello all. I own a Sony ICF-SW77 ... it's a hot receiver and it
worked INCREDIBLY well in the US before I left to come overseas again
(the reason I bought it in the first place). Bottom line is that my
reception SUCKS (with a capital "K")!


http://www.bayarea.com/mld/mercurynews/news/7125749.htm

Geomagnetic storms can also destroy satellites and electronic equipment and
short out power grids. A 1989 solar flare smaller than the latest one caused a
massive blackout in Quebec. The CFA warns that the storm could even hinder
those trying to contain fires blazing in Southern California. Firefighters
there are depending on satellite communications since ground-based microwave
antennas have been damaged by fire.