Earth faces strong magnetic storm: How to protect yourself
A magnetic storm will cover the Earth in the next 24 hours (RBC-Ukraine collage)
A red-level magnetic storm has hit the Earth and its intensity will only increase in the coming days. It is expected to reach a high level of K-index 6, according to Meteoagent.
What is a magnetic storm?
Regular flares and explosions on the Sun result in the release of a large amount of solar energy consisting of charged particles, such as protons and electrons, into space. The emissions occur in different directions, including toward the Earth.
These charged particles can move quickly in space and when they reach the Earth's magnetosphere, they cause activity called magnetic or solar storms.
Scientists classify all magnetic storms according to their strength from K-index 1 to K-index 9. The higher the K-index, the more intense the storm and its consequences.
All storms above K-index 5 are red-level storms that can affect human life and cause a deterioration in health. They disrupt the operation of communication sources: cell towers, GPRS, satellites, and radio frequencies. During storms above K-index 7, auroras can be observed.
The nearest storm
According to NOAA, TESIS, and international meteorological laboratories around the world, a red K-index 5 storm will hit the Earth in the afternoon of January 4. On January 5, this storm will become stronger and intensify to K-index 6.
The magnetosphere will return to a calm state only on Saturday, January 6.
Magnetic storm on January 4-5 (screenshot)
How magnetic storms affect humans
Many studies in the world confirm the relationship between magnetic storms and the deterioration of human health. On such days, people are more likely to seek medical help, especially from cardiologists.
Frequent complaints:
- Headache
- Migraine
- Dizziness
- Fog in the head
- Drowsiness during the day
- Insomnia at night
- Loss of concentration
- General weakness
- Increased fatigue
- Increased anxiety
- Irritability
- Exacerbation of chronic diseases
But magnetic storms pose the greatest danger to astronauts, as they are outside the protective shield of the Earth's atmosphere. They are at risk of being exposed to high levels of radiation, which increases the risk of cancer many times over.
How to protect your health
Doctors give general recommendations that will allow you to go through the days of magnetic storms without difficulty. First of all, you need to get enough sleep, eat well, and follow a normal daily routine. And also:
- Monitor your health
- Drink enough water
- Reduce psycho-emotional and physical stress
- Limit alcohol and cigarettes
- Take a contrast shower in the morning and do exercises
- Take walks in the fresh air during the day
- Ventilate the room
- Try not to overexert yourself, do calm things, choose gentle modes in sports, and get more rest
- If necessary, seek medical help
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.
