Electrodynamic turbulence is an atmospheric phenomenon caused by solar flares. A thermal inversion gradient is created in the ionosphere, resulting in strong, unpredictable currents. This turbulence poses a hazard to shuttlecraft, and interferes with sensors and transporters. Ships can be protected from electrodynamic turbulence by a dielectric field. Electrodynamic turbulence in the Nekrit Expanse hampered efforts by the USS Voyager to contact Commander Chakotay and Ensign Kaplan in 2373. (VOY: "Unity")