Powerful magnetic storm approaching Earth: When to take care of your health
A magnetic storm will cover the Earth in the coming hours (photo: Freepik)
Magnetic storms in the last days of January can cause a deterioration in the health of many people. These storms can also affect the operation of communication sources. What do you need to know about these storms and how to protect your health?
What is a magnetic storm
A magnetic storm is a perturbation of the Earth's magnetic field caused by the planet's interaction with streams of charged particles ejected during solar flares. These storms can last from a few hours to several days and have different effects on the environment and living organisms.
Forecast of magnetic storms
According to NOAA's Space Weather Prediction Center (SWPC), increased geomagnetic activity is expected from January 29 to January 31, 2025.
January 29. During the day, a calm geomagnetic situation with a Kp index of 3 is forecast, which does not pose a significant threat. However, in the evening, the situation may change significantly and a powerful geostorm will begin.
January 30 The peak of the magnetic storm is expected. The Kp index may reach the level of 5-6, which corresponds to a strong magnetic storm (G1). The highest activity is expected between 12:00 and 18:00 UTC.
January 31. Geomagnetic activity will begin to decline to the Kp 4 index, and such readings may still affect sensitive people.
What do scientists say
SWPC experts note that such magnetic storms can affect the operation of energy systems at high latitudes and cause minor disruptions in satellite communications and navigation systems. They recommend that operators of critical infrastructures be prepared for possible interference.
How a magnetic storm affects humans
During periods of increased geomagnetic activity, some people may experience:
- Headaches
- Increased fatigue
- Irritability
- Sleep disturbance
- Increased blood pressure
- People with cardiovascular diseases are especially sensitive
How to protect your health
To minimize the impact of magnetic storms on the body, it is necessary to:
Stick to your daily routine
Regular sleep and rest will help you adapt to the changes as much as possible.
Avoid stress
Practice relaxation techniques such as meditation or yoga. Take a walk in the fresh air, read a book.
Maintain water balance
Drink enough water throughout the day. Limit your consumption of coffee and energy drinks. Drink tea with herbs.
Limit physical activity
On days of increased magnetic activity, avoid intense exercise.
Monitor your diet
Eat foods rich in vitamins and minerals, especially magnesium and potassium.
Earlier, we wrote about which three headache symptoms cannot be ignored.
And we also talked about why a headache can appear in the morning.
Sources: NOAA Space Weather Prediction Center (SWPC), European Space Agency (ESA), SpaceWeatherLive.
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.
