Strong magnetic storm to hit Earth: When and how to stay safe
Magnetic storms will hit the Earth on March 15 and 16 (photo: freepik.com)
Magnetic storms may cause discomfort for many people around the world this weekend. According to scientists, relief will follow a turbulent geomagnetic week, but conditions will remain unstable.
When to expect magnetic storms in mid-March and how to protect yourself — RBC-Ukraine reports.
What is a magnetic storm?
Every day, various explosions and solar flares occur on the Sun, releasing a massive amount of charged particles into space. These particles travel freely in different directions, including toward Earth.
When they reach our planet’s magnetosphere, they cause disturbances known as magnetic storms. These storms vary in intensity, ranging from mild and moderate to powerful and even geomagnetic storms.
Studies show that magnetic storms can impact human well-being. Many people experience discomfort during such events, including headaches, fatigue, mood swings, and general weakness. In addition, magnetic storms can disrupt communication systems, affecting satellites, radio, mobile networks, and GPRS signals.
Health issues caused by magnetic storms
Mild to moderate storms mainly affect weather-sensitive individuals. However, high-intensity storms (classified as red-level storms) can lead to the following symptoms for many people:
- Headaches
- Dizziness
- Migraines
- Blood pressure fluctuations
- Irregular heartbeat
- Nausea
- Daytime drowsiness
- Insomnia
- Weakness
- Fatigue
- Difficulty concentrating
- Reduced productivity
- Low mood
- Depression
- Irritability
- Aggression
- Increased anxiety
- Worsening of chronic conditions
Magnetic storm forecast for March 15-16
According to the NOAA Space Weather Prediction Center, increased geomagnetic activity is expected from March 15 to 16, 2025. The predicted Kp index, which measures geomagnetic disturbances, is as follows:
March 15, 2025: Kp index of 5, indicating a strong geomagnetic storm (G1 level).
March 16, 2025: Kp index of 6, signifying an even stronger geomagnetic storm (G2 level).
These levels of geomagnetic activity can disrupt power grids, affect spacecraft and radio communication, and may cause health issues for many people worldwide.
How to reduce the impact of magnetic storms
Medical experts recommend taking extra care on days with high geomagnetic activity. The key is to maintain a healthy routine and get plenty of rest.
Helpful tips include:
- Spending time outdoors
- Ventilating indoor spaces twice a day
- Eating a balanced diet
- Staying hydrated
- Prioritizing rest and sleep (at least 7-9 hours per night)
- Engaging in relaxation techniques like yoga or meditation
- Reducing physical exertion
- Limiting caffeine, alcohol, smoking, and unhealthy foods
- Avoiding conflicts and stressful situations
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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.
