An active sunspot has once again caused strong magnetic storms, which have enveloped the planet since Monday, June 10. These storms are expected to continue and could lead to a deterioration in the well-being of many people around the world.
RBC-Ukraine explains what is known about this powerful storm and how to protect your health.
What is a magnetic storm
Explosions and flares that regularly occur on the Sun result in the release of a large amount of solar energy into space. This energy consists of charged particles (protons and electrons) that can quickly travel through space, including towards Earth.
When these particles reach Earth's magnetosphere, geomagnetic activity occurs, which scientists refer to as solar or magnetic storms.
All magnetic storms are classified by their intensity. Up to a K-index of 5, storms are considered weak to moderate and are almost unnoticeable to Earth's inhabitants. From a K-index of 5, storms are classified as red level and can affect people's well-being.
The higher the K-index, the greater the storm's impact on human activities. Storms with a K-index of 7 to 9 can disrupt the operation of technology, satellites, radio frequencies, GPRS, and communication towers. These storms can also produce northern lights.
What is known about the upcoming magnetic storm
According to satellite systems NOAA, TESIS, and international meteorological laboratories worldwide, a powerful red-level magnetic storm with a K-index of 6 began on the morning of Monday, June 10. It is expected to last for 2-3 days, and some forecasts suggest it could continue until June 12. The magnetosphere is expected to stabilize only by June 13.
Earlier forecasts by specialists predicted a moderate magnetic storm for June 9-11. However, the influence of solar flares has intensified. Another powerful magnetic storm is expected to hit Earth this week on June 15, also reaching a red level with a K-index of 5-6.
"We can hardly predict magnetic storms in advance. Astronomers know that flares occur when a large group of sunspots appears on the Sun. After they appear, a flare can happen at any time," explained Lyudmila Marchenko, a lecturer at the National Center for Aerospace Education, in a comment to "Suspilne."
Impact of magnetic storms on humans
Numerous studies worldwide have explored the impact of magnetic storms on human activities, and some have confirmed this connection. Red-level magnetic storms can affect a person's well-being and mood.
Since the Sun and Earth have their magnetic fields, they interact during flares.
"Each of us carries our electromagnetic fields, meaning we can record an electrocardiogram because blood is an electrolyte, and it interacts with the electromagnetic field. For people in borderline states, a flare can indeed have negative consequences. Therefore, we must take care of ourselves," explained the specialist.
On such days, people more frequently report headaches, deteriorating well-being, poor mood, and seek medical help, especially from therapists and cardiologists.
Common сomplaints:
- Headache
- Migraine
- Dizziness
- Weakness
- Fatigue
- Daytime sleepiness
- Nighttime sleep problems
- Difficulty concentrating
- Brain fog
- Rapid fatigue
- Blood pressure fluctuations
- Cardiovascular problems
- Mood deterioration
- Increased irritability
- Displays of aggression
- Worsening of chronic illnesses
How to help your body protect itself from magnetic storms
During magnetic storm days, doctors usually offer general recommendations that can reduce the impact and support the body. Here is what they advise:
- Maintain a regular schedule and daily routine
- Go to bed on time and aim for a full night's sleep (7-9 hours)
- Do morning exercises and take a contrast shower
- Eat a balanced diet throughout the day, including fresh vegetables and fruits
- Drink plenty of water
- Avoid excessive consumption of coffee, energy drinks, cigarettes, alcohol, spicy, and unhealthy foods
- Ventilate your living spaces
- Make time for outdoor walks
- Reduce physical and emotional stress
- Seek medical help if necessary
Previously, we wrote about the threats posed to humanity by a highly active sunspot in May.
Sources: Meteoagent, Space Weather, Suspilne.