ua en ru

Magnetic storms in November 2024: Days to pay more attention to your health

Magnetic storms in November 2024: Days to pay more attention to your health When magnetic storms expected in November 2024 (Collage by RBC-Ukraine)

Magnetic storms can cause discomfort in people, headaches, and a depressed mood. They can also affect the operation of various satellites, communication devices, radio frequencies, and GPS. Scientists of the Space Weather Prediction Center of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) have already made a preliminary forecast about magnetic storms in November.

What is a magnetic storm?

Explosions and flares regularly occur on the Sun, leading to the ejection of a large amount of solar energy into space. This energy consists of charged particles - protons and electrons - that can move quickly through space.

When these charged particles reach the Earth's magnetosphere, an activity occurs that scientists call a magnetic or solar storm.

All storms are categorized by strength and classified accordingly. Storms with a K-index of up to 4 are considered weak and moderate, which are barely noticeable on Earth.

Storms with K-index values above 5 are classified as red-level storms, which can impact human life and the operation of electrical equipment. The higher the index, the stronger the magnetic storm and its effects. Polar auroras may occur at the highest levels (K-index of 8 or 9).

Magnetic storms in November

According to satellite systems of NOAA, TESIS, and international meteorological laboratories worldwide, November will be a calm month compared to recent months.

  • November 11-12: moderate magnetic storm, K-index 4
  • November 15: moderate magnetic storm, K-index 4
  • November 20: moderate magnetic storm, K-index 4
  • November 24-25: strong red-level magnetic storm, K-index 5

It is worth remembering that all scientists' forecasts are preliminary. Data can change rapidly, depending on solar activity.

Impact of magnetic storms on humans

Over the past 20 years, scientists have conducted numerous studies on magnetic storms, and have confirmed the link between geomagnetic activity and human health deterioration. On such days, many more people report health issues and seek medical attention.

Research also shows that magnetic fields affect bioelectric processes in the body, causing sleep disturbances, increased irritability, decreased concentration, and productivity.

The most common complaints include:

  • Headaches
  • Migraines
  • Dizziness
  • Brain fog
  • Rapid fatigue, weakness
  • Concentration problems, decreased performance
  • Sleep issues
  • Aggression
  • Irritability
  • Increased anxiety
  • Apathy
  • Depressive states
  • Mood deterioration
  • Cardiovascular problems
  • Nausea
  • Muscle pain

How to survive a magnetic storm

On such days, it is advisable to spend more time resting, caring for your health, maintaining a regular daily routine, and eating a balanced diet.

General recommendations:

  • Sleep 7-9 hours, go to bed and wake up at the same time
  • Balanced diet: light meals, plenty of vegetables, fruits, and greens
  • Limit coffee, energy drinks, spicy and unhealthy foods, alcohol, and smoking
  • Drink enough water
  • Walk outdoors
  • Ventilate rooms
  • In the morning, exercise and take a contrast shower; in the evening, have a relaxing bath
  • Herbal teas
  • Avoid stress and conflicts
  • Rest and don’t overload yourself

If health worsens, seek medical assistance

Previously, we wrote about why headaches occur in the morning.

We also discussed some little-known symptoms that indicate high blood pressure.

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.