Biggest solar flare in years erupts from Sun

NASA has reported a powerful solar flare heading towards Earth, recorded by the Solar Dynamics Observatory. The British Geological Service has issued a geomagnetic storm warning due to the potential impact on communication equipment and power supplies. The Northern Lights are expected to be visible further south than usual in the coming days.

What preparations are electricity suppliers making in response to the solar flare?

What phenomenon is expected to be visible further south than usual due to the solar flare?