Strong magnetic storm hits Earth: How long it will last and how to protect your health
A powerful magnetic storm engulfed the Earth (photo: Freepik)
A powerful red-level magnetic storm hit our planet on Tuesday, March 4, in the afternoon. Such a storm can cause a deterioration in the health of many people on Earth and lead to fluctuations in the operation of communication facilities.
What is a magnetic storm
Flares and explosions occur on the Sun every day, which eject a large number of charged particles into space. They can move quickly, including toward the Earth. When these particles reach the magnetosphere of our planet, a disturbance occurs, which scientists call magnetic storms.
Magnetic storms can be weak, moderate, strong, and very strong (geostorms). Many people on the planet experience only strong magnetic storms and geostorms, and only people with weather dependence experience weak and moderate ones.
In addition, magnetic storms can cause malfunctions in many electrical appliances and communications equipment, such as radio, mobile communications, satellites, and GPRS.
How magnetic storms affect humans
Scientists have conducted a lot of research on the impact of magnetic storms and confirmed that such a connection does exist. On such days, people are more likely to complain of feeling unwell, headaches, depressed mood, and problems with the cardiovascular system.
The most common symptoms are
- Headache and migraine
- Dizziness, nausea
- Increased fatigue
- Decreased concentration and performance
- Irritability and emotional instability
- Increased anxiety
- Sleep disturbances
- Changes in blood pressure
What is known about the nearest magnetic storm
According to the US National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), a strong red-level magnetic storm hit the Earth on Tuesday, March 4, in the afternoon. And now the forecast looks like this:
March 4, Tuesday - red-level magnetic storm, K-index 5
March 5, Wednesday - red-level magnetic storm, K-index 5, possible increase to K-index 6-7
According to scientists, on March 6 this magnetic storm will subside.
The next powerful magnetic storm is predicted for March 12-15.
It is worth noting that all scientists' forecasts are preliminary, as solar activity is very variable and the situation can change within even one day. Therefore, it is worth following the updates and warnings.
How to support your body and reduce exposure
- Don't limit yourself to rest - try to avoid overloading, stick to a normal sleep, rest, and work schedule.
- Avoid stress and psycho-emotional stress - do not quarrel, do not settle relationships, limit reading the news
- Practice relaxation techniques - meditation, breathing exercises, listen to relaxing music, watch a good movie or read a book, take a bath
- Be sure to walk in the fresh air every day and ventilate the room
- Take care of your diet - eat light and balanced meals, avoid overeating, limit alcohol, junk food, and excessive caffeine
- Drink enough water every day
- Take medications as needed or as prescribed by your doctor
If your health condition worsens, seek medical help.
You may be interested in:
- Reasons why you may often have a headache in the morning
- What are the symptoms of a headache that you absolutely cannot ignore
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.
