Magnetic storms are regularly discussed. They are said to cause headaches, weakness, insomnia, and blood pressure changes.
According to Modern.az, the effects of magnetic storms are actually felt more in technology than in humans.
How do magnetic storms form?
Magnetic storms begin as a result of solar activity. During powerful solar flares, streams of charged particles are released into space. If these particles are directed towards Earth, they usually reach Earth within 1–3 days and disrupt the normal state of the planet's magnetic field.
A magnetic storm occurs not in the atmosphere, but in the cosmic space around the Earth. It can last from a few hours to several days.
So what happens to technology during this time?
Strong magnetic storms can disrupt satellite operations, reduce GPS accuracy, and create interference in radio communications. Rarely, they can also increase the load on electrical grids. This is why space agencies, energy companies, airlines, and satellite operators constantly monitor solar activity.
One of the beautiful consequences of magnetic storms is the aurora. When charged particles collide with gases in the upper atmosphere, the sky is painted in green, red, purple, or blue colors. Especially during strong storms, the aurora can be seen further south than usual.
How does this process affect human health?
There is currently no convincing scientific evidence that magnetic storms directly worsen human health.
Some studies have found a weak link between strong magnetic storms and an increase in heart attacks, strokes, and heart rhythm disturbances. Other studies do not confirm such a link. This is because human health is simultaneously affected by insomnia, hot weather, stress, humidity, atmospheric pressure, and chronic diseases. Therefore, it is difficult to determine the exact role of magnetic storms.
Doctors do not consider magnetic storms to be an independent cause of diseases. However, people with cardiovascular diseases, hypertension, and other chronic illnesses are advised to monitor their condition more carefully.
Should one prepare for a magnetic storm in advance?
There are no specific medications or proven methods of protection against magnetic storms. If strong geomagnetic changes are predicted, there is usually no need to change daily life.
The main recommendations are:
get enough sleep;
drink enough water;
do not stop taking medications prescribed by your doctor;
do not overexert yourself physically if you feel unwell.
The forecast of a magnetic storm only indicates the state of the Earth's magnetic field. It does not predetermine whether a specific person will have a headache or increased blood pressure.
Is it dangerous to travel by plane during a magnetic storm?
For ordinary passengers, a magnetic storm is not a reason to postpone a trip. Only during very strong events can problems with radio communication arise on polar routes of airplanes. In such cases, airlines may change the flight route. Most passengers do not even notice this.
It should be noted that most magnetic storms pass without serious consequences. However, the strongest ones can indeed cause damage. A geomagnetic storm in 1989 caused a major power outage in Quebec, Canada. Approximately 6 million people were without electricity for 9 hours.
Today, a strong magnetic storm can affect satellites, navigation, communication, and energy systems. Therefore, scientists monitor solar activity and warn services for which such events are significant in advance.
