Magnetic storms ahead – When they strike and who is most affected

Detailed magnetic storm forecast

From Friday, December 12, to Monday, December 15, no significant G1-class or higher magnetic storms are expected. However, minor disturbances classified as weak to moderate are forecast.

• December 12, Friday – Kp 3-4, moderate disturbances.

• December 13, Saturday – Kp 3-4, moderate magnetic storm.

• December 14, Sunday – Kp 3, weak magnetic storm, possible local disturbances up to Kp 4.

• December 15, Monday – Kp 2, weak or minor magnetic storm.

What is a magnetic storm

A geomagnetic storm is a disruption of Earth’s magnetic field caused by a stream of charged particles ejected from the Sun during solar flares. Intensity is measured using the Kp-index:

• Kp 3-4 – moderate activity, possible mild discomfort.

• Kp 5-7 and higher – strong disturbances affecting technology and well-being.

How magnetic storms affect people

Even weak disturbances (Kp 3) can affect sensitive individuals, causing:

• Headache;

• Migraine;

• Dizziness;

• Fatigue;

• Sleepiness;

• Mood swings;

• Irritability;

• Reduced concentration and attention;

• Worsening of chronic conditions;

Who is at risk

Even weak magnetic disturbances can be felt by:

• People with cardiovascular diseases;

• Patients with hypertension;

• Weather-sensitive and meteorologically dependent individuals;

• Elderly people;

• Patients with neurological or endocrine disorders.

Recommendations for sensitive people

To minimize the negative impact of geomagnetic fluctuations, psychologists and doctors recommend following simple rules:

• Sleep well. Ensure full night rest (at least 7-8 hours).

• Maintain hydration. Drink enough clean water and herbal teas, limit coffee and alcohol.

• Eat properly. Avoid fatty, spicy, and heavy foods, and favor vegetables and fruits.

• Avoid stress. Try not to overload yourself physically or emotionally.

• Get fresh air. Daily walks outside (even 20-30 minutes) improve blood circulation.

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.