Magnetic storms strike again: Experts warn of fatigue, headaches and mood swings

Magnetic Storm Calendar: January 16–19

January 16, Friday

A moderate magnetic storm is expected, with activity at Kp 4, which may briefly intensify in the second half of the day. For most people, the day should pass without serious consequences. However, weather-sensitive individuals may experience headaches, fatigue, drowsiness, and reduced concentration.

January 17, Saturday

Geomagnetic activity increases to Kp 5 (red level, G1). This is one of the most sensitive days of the period. Complaints about blood pressure fluctuations, heart palpitations, irritability, sleep disturbances, and general weakness become more frequent.

January 18, Sunday

The magnetic storm remains at Kp 5, with an unstable background throughout the day. Symptoms that appeared the day before may persist or intensify. People with cardiovascular conditions and chronic fatigue should be especially cautious.

January 19, Monday

Geomagnetic activity is expected to gradually decrease to Kp 3–4, although full stabilization will not occur yet. Weather-sensitive individuals may still experience residual effects such as weakness, headaches, apathy, or reduced productivity.

What Magnetic Storms Are and How They Affect the Body

Magnetic storms are disturbances of Earth’s magnetic field caused by solar flares and streams of solar wind. According to NASA and the NOAA Space Weather Prediction Center, periods of increased solar activity can affect not only satellites and communications, but also human well-being.

Geomagnetic activity is measured using the Kp index:

• Kp 2–4 – weak to moderate activity; mild discomfort possible

• Kp 5 and above – strong magnetic storms that may cause pronounced symptoms

The most sensitive systems are:

• The cardiovascular system;

• The nervous system;

• Hormonal balance;

Who Is Most Affected by Magnetic Storms

People most likely to react to geomagnetic fluctuations include:

• Individuals with cardiovascular diseases;

• People with high or low blood pressure;

• Weather-sensitive individuals;

• People with chronic fatigue;

• Older adults;

• Pregnant women;

• People with sleep disorders.

Worsening well-being is also common among those under constant stress or experiencing high emotional strain.

Possible Symptoms During Magnetic Storms

During geomagnetic disturbances, the following symptoms may occur:

• Headaches and migraines;

• Dizziness;

• Weakness and drowsiness;

• Increased anxiety;

• Blood pressure fluctuations;

• Heart palpitations;

• Irritability;

• Flare-ups of chronic conditions;

How to Reduce the Impact of Magnetic Storms

During periods of increased geomagnetic activity, doctors recommend:

• Avoiding overexertion;

• Sleeping at least 7–9 hours;

• Maintaining a stable daily routine;

• Drinking enough water;

• Eating balanced meals;

• Limiting coffee, alcohol, and heavy foods;

• Ventilating rooms more often;

• Spending more time outdoors;

• Reducing physical and emotional stress;

• Regularly monitoring blood pressure.

People with chronic conditions should follow their doctor’s advice and keep necessary medications readily available.

Earlier, we wrote about how much sleep is needed to live longer.

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.