Powerful magnetic storm in December: When it will strike and who at risk

Magnetic storm forecast

According to space centers, from Monday, December 15, to Saturday, December 20, no major solar flares are expected that could trigger strong storms. Activity will remain at low levels.

• December 15, Monday – minimal activity, Kp-2; a small spike to Kp-3 possible in the morning.

• December 16, Tuesday – minimal activity, Kp-2.

• December 17, Wednesday – weak magnetic storm, Kp-3.

• December 18, Thursday – weak magnetic storm, Kp-3.

• December 19, Friday – weak magnetic storm, Kp-3.

• December 20, Saturday – minimal activity, Kp-2; moderate magnetic storm Kp-4 expected in the evening.

After this relatively calm period, scientists predict a prolonged magnetic storm of Kp-5 (G1) level from December 21 to 26.

What is a magnetic storm

A geomagnetic storm is a disturbance in Earth's magnetic field caused by a stream of charged particles ejected from the Sun during solar flares. Its intensity is measured by the Kp index:

• Kp 2–4 – minimal to moderate activity, possible mild discomfort.

• Kp 5–7 and above – strong disturbances affecting technology and wellbeing.

Impact on technology

During strong magnetic storms, the following may occur:

• Disruptions to GPS and satellite systems;

• Interference with radio communication and communication lines;

• Voltage fluctuations in power grids;

Impact on people

Even minor fluctuations (Kp-2) may cause weather-sensitive individuals to experience:

• Headaches and migraines;

• Dizziness;

• Fatigue and drowsiness;

• Mood swings and irritability;

• Reduced concentration and attention;

• Exacerbation of chronic conditions;

Who is at risk

Even weak magnetic disturbances can affect:

• People with cardiovascular diseases;

• Patients with hypertension;

• Weather-sensitive individuals;

• Elderly people;

• Patients with neurological or endocrine disorders;

How to protect yourself

Doctors recommend that people sensitive to magnetic storms follow simple preventive measures:

• Maintain sleep and nutrition (at least 7 hours of sleep);

• Avoid stress and overexertion;

• Go for daily walks outdoors;

• Ventilate rooms regularly;

• Drink enough water;

• Take time for rest;

• Engage in moderate physical activity

• Limit coffee, energy drinks, fatty foods, and alcohol;

• Keep necessary medications handy for chronic conditions;

• Follow forecasts and scientists’ warnings.

Earlier, we wrote about foods that increase the risk of migraine.

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.