Are you weather-sensitive? Brace for geomagnetic storms hitting late March
Magnetic storm forecast for March 23–28 (photo: Getty Images)
A series of magnetic storms of varying intensity is expected to hit Earth at the end of March. Geomagnetic fluctuations may last for several days in a row and can affect both people’s well-being and the operation of technology and communications.
RBC-Ukraine explains when the strongest magnetic storms are expected between March 23 and 28, how they may affect health, and what doctors advise.
Magnetic storm forecast for March 23–28
Experts regularly monitor solar activity, as powerful solar flares can trigger geomagnetic storms on Earth. According to forecasts from space monitoring centers, several periods of increased geomagnetic activity are possible at the end of March.
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March 23 – moderate magnetic storm (K-index 4). A decline in well-being is possible, especially for those in risk groups.
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March 24 – geomagnetic activity will begin to intensify in the second half of the day (K-index 4–5).
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March 25 – strong (red-level) magnetic storm (K-index 5). Headaches, drowsiness, reduced concentration, and attention issues are possible.
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March 26 – the geomagnetic situation will begin to improve; residual effects are possible in the second half of the day (K-index 3).
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March 27 – weak magnetic storm that may be felt by weather-sensitive people and those with chronic conditions (K-index 3).
It is worth noting that magnetic storm forecasts may change, as solar activity can sometimes increase suddenly.
What is a magnetic storm
A magnetic storm is a reaction of Earth’s magnetic field to powerful energy emissions from the Sun. When a strong solar flare or coronal mass ejection occurs, charged particles reach our planet and interact with the magnetosphere.
This can cause:
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Fluctuations in the geomagnetic field;
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Disruptions in satellite operations;
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Communication issues;
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Bright auroras;
Sometimes such phenomena also affect people’s well-being, especially those sensitive to weather changes.
How magnetic storms may affect health
During geomagnetic fluctuations, some people may experience a decline in well-being.
The most common symptoms include:
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Headaches;
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Dizziness;
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Increased fatigue;
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Sleep disturbances;
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Blood pressure fluctuations;
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Irritability or anxiety;
Those most likely to be affected include:
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Weather-sensitive individuals;
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People with cardiovascular diseases;
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People with chronic conditions;
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Elderly people;
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Pregnant women;
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Those with sleep problems;
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People experiencing chronic fatigue or stress;
However, doctors emphasize that the impact of magnetic storms on the body is individual.
How to ease your condition during magnetic storms
Doctors advise reducing physical and emotional strain and getting more rest during periods of increased solar activity.
Helpful tips include:
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Drink more water;
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Try to get enough sleep;
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Reduce coffee and alcohol consumption;
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Maintain a balanced diet;
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Spend more time outdoors;
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Avoid excessive stress;
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Monitor blood pressure.
If a person has chronic conditions, doctors recommend continuing prescribed medications without interruption.
This material is for informational purposes only and should not be used for medical diagnosis or self-treatment. Our goal is to provide readers with accurate information about symptoms, causes, and methods of detecting diseases. RBС-Ukraine is not responsible for any diagnoses that readers may make based on materials from the resource. We do not recommend self-treatment and advise consulting a doctor in case of any health concerns.