Magnetic storms ahead: What you need to know and who's most at risk
When to expect magnetic storms in the coming days (photo: Freepik)
At the beginning of the second decade of September, the Sun is showing increased activity. In the coming days, many people will be able to feel it, as magnetic storms will not pass Earth by. When should we expect geomagnetic disturbances, who should be cautious, and how to prepare?
Magnetic storm forecast
September 12, Friday: weak magnetic storms Kp-3 are expected, short-term health discomfort is possible
September 13, Saturday: storms are unlikely, the magnetosphere is stable
September 14, Sunday: moderate disturbances Kp-4 are possible, short-term discomfort may occur
September 15, Monday: strong magnetic storm Kp-5 (G1), noticeable symptoms are possible in weather-sensitive people
Why magnetic storms occur
Magnetic storms are caused by solar flares and the release of massive amounts of energy, ultraviolet radiation, and charged particles.
High-speed solar wind streams reach Earth within hours or days and cause geomagnetic disturbances. Such phenomena can last from several days to two weeks, affecting high, mid, and low latitudes.
How storms affect the body
Most vulnerable are:
- people with cardiovascular diseases
- those with hypertension
- weather-sensitive individuals
- people with sleep disorders
Possible symptoms:
- headache, dizziness
- blood pressure fluctuations
- irritability, reduced concentration
- fatigue, drowsiness
How to ease the condition during storms
Tips from doctors and researchers:
- Drink enough water
- Avoid coffee, alcohol, and heavy food
- Avoid stress
- Take walks in fresh air
- Maintain 7–9 hours of sleep
- Monitor blood pressure
- Take prescribed medications if needed
Earlier, we revealed what happens to your body if you give up coffee.
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.
