Powerful solar storms are on the way - Protect your health on these key days

Magnetic storm forecast

July 14, Monday: increased activity up to level G1 (Kp-5). Possible symptoms include headaches, drowsiness, and more

July 15, Tuesday: level G1 with a potential increase in geomagnetic activity

July 16, Wednesday: geomagnetic activity is expected to decrease to Kp-4 in the second half of the day, discomfort is possible

July 17, Thursday: moderate magnetic storm, Kp-4

July 18, Friday: decrease in geomagnetic activity to Kp-3-4

What is a magnetic storm

Solar flares and explosions of varying intensity occur on the Sun every day. The most powerful of them result in the release of a large amount of charged particles into space. These particles travel rapidly and can reach Earth.

When they collide with our planet's magnetosphere, a disturbance occurs, which scientists call solar or magnetic storms. Storms are categorized by strength, from weak to strong. The stronger the storm, the worse the consequences for people.

How magnetic storms affect people

According to numerous studies, fluctuations in Earth's magnetic field are not physically felt, but they strongly affect biological rhythms. This is what leads to a decline in well-being, mood, and overall condition.

Most sensitive to these fluctuations are elderly people, those sensitive to weather changes, people with chronic illnesses, pregnant women, and infants.

Most common symptoms:

• Headache
• Migraine
• Dizziness
• Brain fog
• Nausea
• Reduced concentration and alertness
• Blood pressure fluctuations
• Irregular heartbeat
• Ringing in the ears
• Daytime sleepiness, nighttime insomnia
• Increased anxiety
• Severe fatigue
• Panic moods
• Apathy
• Irritability
• Aggression
• Exacerbation of chronic illnesses

How to protect your body

Doctors say that it is impossible to avoid the effects of magnetic storms completely. However, there are general recommendations to help minimize the negative impact.

Sleep. Sleep 7-9 hours a night, go to bed and wake up at the same time (11:00 p.m. to 7:00 a.m.). If you're feeling very tired, take a break during the day for 1-2 hours.

Nutrition. Limit consumption of harmful, fatty, and salty foods. Eat regularly, three or more times a day.

Food should be balanced and rich in nutrients. Add fruits, vegetables, and greens to your diet. Avoid alcohol, energy drinks, and excessive coffee.

Water. Maintain your hydration and drink enough clean water daily.

Physical exercise. Avoid overloading your body with intense workouts, but keep moving. Morning stretches, gym sessions, running, or swimming will help.

Fresh air. Ventilate your living spaces twice a day, morning and evening. Walk in the park, forest, or a square daily. If possible, take a trip outside the city.

Stress. Control your stress level, avoid arguments and conflicts, and don't give in to provocations. Don't overload yourself emotionally. Use breathing exercises, relaxation techniques, meditation, and yoga.

Limit your exposure to news, social media, and shock content, especially 2-3 hours before bedtime.

Take care of yourself. Rest more, do things you enjoy, pay attention to your well-being, and keep any necessary medication on hand if you have chronic illnesses.

If your condition worsens, seek medical help.

Sources: SpaceWeatherLive.com (NOAA SWPC), Space Weather Prediction Center (NOAA)

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.