Magnetic storms: weekend forecast revealed
Will there be a magnetic storm this weekend? (illustrative photo: freepik.com)
Magnetic storms can impact human activity and overall well-being. While minor disturbances may go unnoticed by most, significant geomagnetic storms can lead to health issues for many people around the globe. They also affect the functionality of communication systems, including radio, mobile networks, satellites, and GPS.
RBC-Ukraine provides a forecast of magnetic storms for the weekend of January 18–19 and shares tips on how to support your body during these periods.
When to expect magnetic storms
According to NOAA’s Space Weather Prediction Center, the geomagnetic field will remain calm in the coming days, with minor to moderate magnetic storms possible.
- Saturday, January 18: Moderate magnetic storm, K-index 4.
- Sunday, January 19: Weak magnetic storm, K-index 2–3.
- Monday, January 20: Weak magnetic storm, K-index 3.
Moderate magnetic storms are typically felt by individuals sensitive to changes in weather and magnetic fluctuations. Such storms may cause mild health issues, including headaches, fatigue, irritability, drowsiness, and exacerbation of chronic conditions.
It is important to note that all scientific forecasts are preliminary, as the situation can change rapidly. This variability is due to the unstable nature of solar activity, which can fluctuate several times a day.
Scientists recommend staying updated on changes in geomagnetic activity for the most accurate information.
What is a magnetic storm?
The Sun experiences daily activity that triggers various solar flares. These flares release large amounts of solar energy into space, consisting of particles like protons and electrons.
These particles travel quickly through space and can reach Earth’s magnetosphere. When they interact with the planet’s magnetic field, they cause disturbances that result in various phenomena: magnetic storms, auroras, communication disruptions, and malfunctions in power grids and satellites.
Magnetic storms vary in intensity, ranging from mild to severe. Red-level storms can significantly impact both human well-being and communication systems.
Impact of magnetic storms on humans
In recent years, scientists have conducted numerous studies, some of which confirm a link between magnetic storms and human health. During such periods, people often report increased drowsiness, difficulty concentrating, reduced productivity, fatigue, blood pressure fluctuations, and irregular heart rhythms.
One study revealed that strong magnetic storms can affect the body’s bioelectric processes, leading to sleep disturbances, decreased performance, heightened anxiety, and irritability.
How to support your body during magnetic storms
Doctors recommend maintaining a regular daily routine, getting enough sleep, staying hydrated, resting, and reducing stress levels during magnetic storms. It is advisable to avoid overexerting yourself physically or emotionally.
Activities such as walking outdoors, swimming, or engaging in calm, gadget-free pursuits can be beneficial.
Additionally, it’s best to limit consumption of coffee, energy drinks, alcohol, cigarettes, and unhealthy foods. If your condition worsens or causes concern, seek medical advice promptly.
Earlier, we wrote about which fruit should be avoided when experiencing a headache.
We also shared information on headache symptoms that should not be ignored.
Sources: NOAA, Meteoagent, and the Space Forecast by NASA’s Solar Astronomy Laboratory.
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.
