One thing does not necessarily preclude the other.

What if... Haarp is timed to coincide with a very active sun. Much is visible. Millions are witnesses. Then a few months from now they say another one is happening but it's 100 times more powerful. People having seen the first one believe the story and expect the worst. Only this time it is much less visible because..?

So... turn off the delicate electronic machines and postpone the elections.