Magnetic turbulence incoming: Who's vulnerable and how to minimize effects
Will magnetic storms affect Ukraine from October 20 to 25 (photo: Freepik)
Between October 20 and 25, mostly moderate geomagnetic conditions are expected, with possible short-term bursts of activity. Magnetic storms can affect not only people's well-being but also the operation of technology, so it's worth knowing who may be affected and how to minimize the negative effects. What forecast do scientists give for magnetic storms between October 20 and 25, and how can their impact on the human body be reduced?
Magnetic storm forecast for October 20-25
October 20, Monday: K-index 4-5. Short fluctuations are possible, but no serious consequences are expected.
October 21, Tuesday: Activity may slightly decrease, but the background will remain unstable.
October 22, Wednesday: The magnetosphere will stabilize, with a K-index of 2-3, indicating mostly moderate conditions.
October 23, Thursday: Geomagnetic activity will continue to stabilize, with minimal effects on the body and technology.
October 24, Friday: A mostly calm day without storms; the magnetic field will be close to normal.
October 25, Saturday: Moderate fluctuations are expected, with a K-index of 4. Weather-sensitive people may feel some discomfort.
What a magnetic storm is
A geomagnetic storm is the Earth's magnetic field's reaction to powerful solar streams that occur after solar flares. Its intensity is measured by the K-index scale (0-9) or by classes G1-G5.
- G1 (K-index 4-5) is a moderate storm that can slightly affect human health, communication, and navigation.
- G2 (K-index 6) and higher indicate stronger conditions that may cause power grid disruptions.
How storms affect technology
During geomagnetic fluctuations, satellites, GPS navigation, and radio communications—especially at high latitudes—may experience malfunctions. Power grids can also experience higher loads. In the case of moderate storms, serious breakdowns are unlikely, but certain systems may still be sensitive.
Impact on people's well-being
Even moderate disturbances can cause discomfort in people sensitive to environmental changes. Common symptoms include:
- Headache
- Dizziness
- Fatigue
- Fluctuations in blood pressure
- Sleep disturbances or drowsiness
- Irritability
- Reduced concentration
Who is at risk
- People with cardiovascular diseases
- Those with hypertension
- Elderly individuals
- People with chronic conditions
- Weather-sensitive individuals
- Those dependent on weather changes
- Those who already have sleep problems
On such days, the body may react even to minor changes in the magnetic field.
How to reduce the effects of magnetic storms
Doctors recommend:
- Sleeping at least 7-9 hours
- Drinking more water and herbal teas
- Reducing coffee, alcohol, and energy drink intake
- Avoiding overexertion and stress
- Eating light, balanced meals
- Spending more time outdoors
- Regularly airing out rooms
- Monitoring blood pressure and overall well-being, especially with chronic illnesses
Sources: NOAA Space Weather Prediction Center, ESA Space Weather Coordination Center, 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.
