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Solar flares in late September: When they hit hardest and who should take precautions

Solar flares in late September: When they hit hardest and who should take precautions Magnetic storms will hit from September 22 to 27 (photo: Freepik.com)

Magnetic storms can affect people's well-being and the operation of technology. According to scientists' forecasts, no significant fluctuations of the geomagnetic field are expected in the coming days, but some disturbances, which may exacerbate the condition of weather-sensitive individuals, are possible. Here is the forecast for magnetic storms from September 22 to 27.

Magnetic storm forecast for September 22-27

According to NOAA SWPC experts, the geomagnetic weather in the coming days will be as follows:

September 22, Monday: moderate activity level, K-index 3. In the evening, a disturbance up to K-index 4 is possible.

September 23, Tuesday: moderate disturbances of K-index 4 are expected, but activity will decline in the second half of the day.

September 24, Wednesday: minor fluctuations are possible in the first half of the day, not exceeding K-index 3.

September 25, Thursday: stable situation, geomagnetic field within normal limits.

September 26, Friday: low activity level, minimal probability of storms.

September 27, Saturday: disturbance up to K-index 4 is possible only in the evening, the whole day will remain calm.

What is a geomagnetic storm?

A geomagnetic storm is a disturbance of the Earth’s magnetic field caused by solar emissions. NOAA classifies them from G1 to G5:

  • G1 is the weakest level, affects only sensitive people, and may cause minor technical failures.
  • G5 is the strongest level, which can harm equipment, power systems, and the health of weather-sensitive people.

How magnetic storms affect people

The most vulnerable are:

  • People with cardiovascular diseases
  • Hypertensive patients
  • Weather-sensitive individuals
  • Those with sleep problems
  • Elderly people

Possible symptoms:

  • Headache and dizziness
  • Blood pressure fluctuations
  • Irritability and fatigue
  • Drowsiness, reduced concentration
  • Worsening of chronic illnesses

How to reduce the impact of storms on well-being

Health experts recommend:

  • Sleep at least 7–9 hours and maintain a steady routine
  • avoid overwork and stress
  • Drink more water and herbal tea
  • Reduce coffee and alcohol intake
  • Take light walks in fresh air
  • avoid excessive physical exertion
  • Monitor your health and consult doctors if necessary

Earlier, we revealed what happens to your body if you give up caffeine.

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.