Cosmic chaos ahead: Magnetic storms will test your strength this week

Magnetic storm forecast for February 16–20

According to preliminary space forecasts:

• February 16 – increased geomagnetic activity, possible G1-level fluctuations (Kp 4–5)

• February 17–18 – magnetic storm level will remain at Kp 4 (moderate), with possible short periods of lower activity

• February 19–20 – gradual decrease in activity, forecasted Kp 3–4

Note: forecasts can change within hours, as solar flares are difficult to predict with absolute accuracy.

What is a magnetic storm

Magnetic storms are disturbances in Earth’s magnetic field caused by solar flares and solar wind. According to NASA and the NOAA Space Weather Prediction Center, during periods of high solar activity, these phenomena can affect not only satellites and communications but also human well-being.

Magnetic storm strength is measured by the planetary K-index:

• 1–3: calm magnetosphere

• 4: excited state (moderate magnetic storm)

• 5 and above: magnetic storm

• 7–8: strong storm

• 9: powerful geomagnetic storm

Even moderate storms can affect well-being, especially for those weakened by stress or lack of sleep.

Who is most affected

Most sensitive are:

• People with cardiovascular diseases

• Hypertensive individuals

• Meteorologically sensitive people

• Those with chronic fatigue or sleep problems

Typical symptoms

During geomagnetic disturbances, people often report:

• Headache

• Migraine

• Sleepiness or insomnia

• Blood pressure fluctuations

• Irritability

• Reduced concentration

• Fatigue

Important: magnetic storms do not cause diseases, but can exacerbate existing symptoms.

Why we react

During magnetic storms, the state of Earth’s magnetosphere changes. The human body is a complex bioelectric system, so sudden fluctuations can affect the nervous and cardiovascular systems. While skeptics argue the effect is exaggerated, doctors recognize that some people’s well-being does change during these periods.

Doctors’ and specialists’ advice

• Maintain a routine: sufficient sleep, regular meals

• Drink plenty of water to stabilize blood pressure

• Avoid physical and emotional overload

• Reduce caffeine and alcohol intake

• Take light outdoor walks: gentle activity helps relieve tension

• Carry prescribed medications if you have chronic conditions

• Avoid stress: do not get into conflicts, practice meditation and breathing exercises

What not to do

• Overload yourself physically or emotionally

• Take any medications without consulting a doctor

• Ignore serious symptoms

If severe chest pain, sudden deterioration of well-being, or sharp blood pressure spikes occur, see a doctor immediately – do not just blame the Sun.

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.