Magnetic storm alert: Who is vulnerable and how to prepare
Powerful geomagnetic storm to hit Earth in the next 24 hours (photo: Freepik)
Between November 7 and 9, 2025, increased geomagnetic activity is expected. According to the NOAA Space Weather Prediction Center and other international agencies, disturbances at levels G2-G3 may occur, meaning people should pay attention to their well-being. When geomagnetic storms are expected, who is at risk?
Geomagnetic storm forecast
Data from NOAA Space Weather Prediction Center, NASA Solar Dynamics Observatory, and ESA SWE indicate a series of moderate to strong geomagnetic fluctuations from November 7 to 9.
- November 7, Friday: a peak of activity at levels G2-G3 (Kp 6-7) is likely. It will be caused by a strong coronal mass ejection (CME) reaching Earth on Thursday night.
- November 8, Saturday: activity is expected to decrease to G1-G2 (Kp 5-6) gradually, but effects will still be noticeable throughout the day.
- November 9, Sunday: activity is likely to drop to moderate levels (Kp 4-5).
Such levels indicate a strong storm that may cause short-term disruptions in communication and affect people sensitive to weather changes.
What is a geomagnetic storm, and what to expect
A geomagnetic storm occurs when charged particles from the Sun interact with Earth’s magnetic field. CMEs or high-speed solar wind streams are especially dangerous.
Types of geomagnetic storms:
- G1 (K-index 5) are minor storms that can affect the health of weather-sensitive people
- G2 (K-index 6-7) are stronger storms, possible navigation or communication disruptions, and minor voltage fluctuations
- G3 (K-index 7-8) are geomagnetic storms, many may feel discomfort, and there may be possible impacts on power systems, satellites, and GPS
Impact on technology and communication
During a G3 storm, short-term GPS navigation or radio disruptions, increased satellite charging, and higher resistance in space may occur.
For ordinary users, this could mean signal degradation, lower location accuracy, or minor electrical or network interruptions (more likely at high latitudes). In Ukraine, the risk is lower than in northern regions.
Effects on health
Increased geomagnetic activity may cause discomfort in weather-sensitive individuals. Typical symptoms include:
- Headache
- Migraine
- Dizziness
- Blood pressure fluctuations
- Fatigue
- Sleepiness
- Reduced concentration
- Irritability or aggression
Who is at risk
The most vulnerable include:
- People with cardiovascular or neurological conditions
- Those with hypertension
- Weather-sensitive individuals
- Pregnant women
- Elderly people
These groups may experience headaches, fatigue, blood pressure changes, insomnia, or decreased concentration during geomagnetic storms.
How to minimize the effects of a geomagnetic storm
- Sleep 7-8 hours and maintain a routine
- Drink enough water; limit caffeine, alcohol, and energy drinks
- Avoid excessive stress and physical strain
- Eat light meals: vegetables, fruits, fish; minimize heavy foods
- Monitor medication intake if you have chronic conditions
- Follow space weather forecasts, as solar activity can change daily
Earlier, we revealed 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.
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.
