Earth to face magnetic storm wave: Key danger dates, risk groups

Solar activity rises in December. According to space centers, several waves of magnetic storms will hit Earth from December 8 to 12. Their strength will vary from moderate to strong, potentially causing headaches, fatigue, and concentration problems in people sensitive to weather changes.

Magnetic storm forecast

December 8, Monday – moderate activity, Kp-4.

December 9, Tuesday – G1-level storm (Kp-5), in the evening, expected increase to Kp 6–7, most noticeable for weather-sensitive people.

December 10, Wednesday – storm continues, possible Kp 5–6 fluctuations.

December 11, Thursday – activity remains at Kp-5 (G1), discomfort for people with chronic illnesses.

December 12, Friday – gradual decrease to Kp 3–4.

What is a magnetic storm

A geomagnetic storm is a disturbance of Earth's magnetic field caused by a stream of charged particles from the Sun. Intensity is measured on the Kp scale:

• Kp 3–4 – moderate activity, possible mild discomfort;

• Kp 5–7 and above – strong disturbances affecting electronics and well-being;

How magnetic storms affect technology

During strong magnetic storms, possible effects include:

• Interruptions in GPS and satellite systems;

• Disruptions in radio and communication lines;

• Voltage fluctuations in power grids;

How magnetic storms affect people

Even moderate fluctuations can cause:

• Headaches;

• Migraines;

• Dizziness;

• Fatigue;

• Drowsiness;

• Mood swings;

• Irritability;

• Decreased concentration and attention;

• Exacerbation of chronic illnesses;

Who is at risk

• People with cardiovascular diseases;

• Patients with hypertension;

• Weather-sensitive individuals;

• Elderly people;

• Patients with neurological or endocrine disorders;

How to protect your body

Doctors recommend that people sensitive to magnetic storms:

• Follow regular sleep and nutrition routines;

• Avoid stress and overload;

• Take daily walks outdoors;

• Ventilate living spaces;

• Drink enough water;

• Allocate time for rest;

• Engage in moderate physical activity;

• Limit coffee, energy drinks, fatty foods, and alcohol;

• People with chronic illnesses should keep necessary medications on hand;

• Monitor forecasts and warnings from scientists.

Earlier, we wrote about 5 foods that can trigger migraines.

Sources: NOAA Space Weather Prediction Center, ESA Space Weather Coordination Centre, NASA Solar Dynamics Observatory, PMC, BioMed Central, Nature

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