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Geomagnetic storm alert: Difficult period ahead for weather-sensitive people

Mon, May 18, 2026 - 09:45
3 min
Cut out coffee and stress. Which days this week will become a real challenge for weather-sensitive people?
Geomagnetic storm alert: Difficult period ahead for weather-sensitive people Earth will once again be hit by a strong magnetic storm (photo: Getty Images)

After the powerful storm that raged over the weekend, solar activity remains unstable, forcing weather-sensitive people and those with chronic illnesses to be especially cautious.

RBC-Ukraine, citing the SWPC (Space Weather Prediction Center), shares a detailed storm calendar and advice on how to protect blood vessels during this period

Magnetic storm calendar: detailed forecast

According to astrophysicists’ forecasts, space weather from May 18 to May 22 will remain highly unstable:

May 18. Peak (minor storm). Earth will feel the indirect impact of a coronal mass ejection that occurred several days ago. The disturbance level will reach 5 points (G1 level, red level). Severe migraine attacks, apathy, and sudden spikes in blood pressure are possible.

May 19–20. Storm aftermath. The magnetosphere will slowly begin calming down, but the geomagnetic background will remain active at around 4 points (yellow level). The body may experience general exhaustion, lack of concentration, and drowsiness.

May 21–22. Stabilization. Indicators will finally return to normal (2–3 points). Earth’s magnetic field will calm down, allowing the body to begin the process of full recovery.

What is a magnetic storm?

When solar flares occur on the Sun, clouds of charged particles are ejected toward Earth. Their collision with our planet’s magnetic field creates disturbances in the atmosphere. This not only triggers auroras but also directly affects the human nervous system.

Who is at greatest risk?

A red-level geomagnetic storm (5 points) is especially dangerous for:

  • People who recently underwent surgery
  • Weather-sensitive and meteorologically dependent individuals
  • Those with cardiovascular diseases or hypertension
  • Elderly people and pregnant women
  • People experiencing chronic stress or severe fatigue

Most common symptoms

During peak solar activity days (May 19–20), you may experience:

  • Headaches: from mild pressure in the temples to severe migraines
  • Blood pressure spikes: even in people without previous health issues
  • Weakness: a feeling of “heavy body” and aching joints
  • Sleep problems: difficulty falling asleep or overwhelming daytime drowsiness
  • Anxiety: inner tension without obvious reasons

How to protect yourself: expert advice

To minimize the impact of a magnetic storm on the body, doctors recommend:

  • Avoid stimulants. Coffee, strong tea, and alcohol are your enemies during these days because they overload blood vessels.
  • Stay hydrated. Drink more clean still water. This helps thin the blood and reduces strain on the heart.
  • Limit physical exertion. Avoid intense workouts. A slow walk in the park is a much better option.
  • Follow a special diet. Reducing salty foods helps prevent water retention and swelling.
  • Keep medications nearby. Make sure your blood pressure or headache medicines are easily accessible.

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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.

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