High-risk magnetic storms ahead: Key days for those prone to headaches
Will there be magnetic storms from May 4 to 9 and how intense they will be (photo: Getty Images)
Early May 2026 is expected to be a turbulent period for Earth’s magnetosphere. A series of solar flares will trigger geomagnetic storms of varying intensity that will last for nearly a week, according to the SWPC forecast.
RBC-Ukraine explains what to expect from magnetic storms from May 4 to May 9 and how to minimize their impact on your well-being.
Magnetic storm calendar: detailed forecast for May 4–9
According to monitoring centers, space weather during this period will unfold as follows:
May 4. Activity is expected to increase to 4 points. Headaches, insomnia, and general weakness may return.
May 5. Solar activity will remain at 3–4 points. This is a moderate level that may cause irritability and rapid fatigue.
May 6–7. Peak of the geomagnetic storm is expected. Indicators may rise to 5 points (red level). Weather-sensitive people should be especially cautious on these days.
May 8. The magnetosphere will begin to stabilize, with activity dropping to 3 points. The body will gradually start to recover.
May 9. Conditions return to normal. The geomagnetic background will stabilize, allowing people to finally “breathe out.”
What is a magnetic storm
During solar flares, microparticles are ejected into space and collide at high speed with Earth’s magnetic shield. This collision causes disturbances known as magnetic storms.
Weak and moderate storms usually affect weather-sensitive individuals, but strong geomagnetic storms can impact almost everyone and may also disrupt communications, radio signals, and satellites.
Who is at risk?
- Weather-sensitive individuals
- People with cardiovascular diseases or hypertension
- Elderly people and pregnant women
- Individuals under chronic stress or severe fatigue
Most common symptoms:
- Sudden migraines or a “heavy” head
- Blood pressure fluctuations and rapid heartbeat
- Joint aches and muscle weakness
- Sleep disturbances: insomnia at night or excessive daytime sleepiness
- Irritability and emotional instability
How to protect yourself: expert advice
Magnetic storms can affect blood viscosity, putting extra strain on the heart. To get through this period more comfortably, follow these simple tips:
Stay hydrated. Drink more clean water. Herbal teas with mint or lemon balm can help calm the nervous system.
Avoid stimulants. Minimize coffee, energy drinks, and alcohol — they can worsen the effects on blood vessels.
Eat light. Avoid fatty and overly salty foods to prevent swelling and blood pressure spikes.
Sleep and fresh air. Get at least 7–8 hours of sleep. An evening walk outdoors can relieve mental tension better than gadgets.
Monitor medications. If you have chronic conditions, make sure to keep necessary medications on hand.
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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.
