Magnetic storm to last several more days: When to take extra care of your health

What is a magnetic storm

The Sun regularly experiences various flares and explosions, which provoke the release of large amounts of solar energy into space. This solar energy consists of charged particles – protons and electrons – that can travel quickly through space, including toward Earth.

When these charged particles reach Earth's magnetosphere, activity occurs that scientists call magnetic or solar storms.

Magnetic storms can be moderate, ranging from a K-index 1 to a K-index 4, or they can be more powerful, classified as red-level storms, with a K-index 5 to 9. The higher the K-index, the stronger the storm and its impact on human activity.

Red-level storms can worsen the well-being of many people on the planet and affect the operation of satellites, frequencies, and communication systems, and even trigger the appearance of auroras.

What we know about the current magnetic storm

According to satellite systems NOAA, TESIS, and international meteorological laboratories worldwide, a powerful magnetic storm hit Earth on Tuesday, September 10. It reached a red-level storm with a K-index 6.

Earlier forecasts indicated that the storm would last two days, but current maps show that it will be more prolonged. On Thursday, September 12, the storm will weaken slightly to a K-index 5, but on Friday, September 13, it will strengthen again to a K-index 6.

At this point, predictive maps show that the magnetosphere will only return to a calm state on Saturday, September 14. The next red-level magnetic storm is expected on September 26-27.

How magnetic storms affect humans

Scientists worldwide have conducted numerous studies confirming a link between magnetic storms and human well-being. On such days, people most often complain of headaches, general weakness, and are more likely to seek medical help, particularly from cardiologists.

This is because magnetic fields affect the bioelectrical processes in the body, leading to sleep disturbances, decreased productivity, and increased irritability.

Common complaints include:

• Headaches
• Migraines
• Dizziness
• General weakness
• Decreased productivity
• Concentration issues
• Irritability
• Irregular heart rhythms
• High blood pressure
• Chest pain
• Insomnia at night
• Daytime drowsiness
• Increased anxiety
• Quick fatigue
• Aggression
• Depressive states
• Apathy
• Nausea
• Joint and muscle pain

How to help your body cope

Doctors offer general recommendations for days with magnetic storms, including advice on nutrition, maintaining a normal daily schedule, and managing stress:

• Stick to a regular daily routine
• Try to get enough sleep (7-9 hours a day)
• Eat a balanced diet with fresh vegetables and fruits, and don’t skip meals
• Drink enough water
• Avoid excessive coffee, energy drinks, alcohol, cigarettes, spicy, and unhealthy food
• Get fresh air – in the park, yard, or countryside
• Regularly ventilate rooms
• Engage in moderate exercise
• Avoid stressful situations, and reduce physical and emotional stress
• Try to rest more
• Take necessary medications
• If your condition worsens, seek medical help

Previously, we discussed possible causes of morning headaches.

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.