In April, we will see a series of geomagnetic bursts of varying intensity throughout most of the month. Medium and high-intensity storms will occur mainly in the second half of April.
The level of magnetic storms is assessed using the Kp index (geomagnetic activity index):
- 0-3: no disturbances;
- 4-5: light storm;
- 6-7: moderate storm;
- 8-9: severe storm.
According to preliminary forecasts, storms are expected in April:
- Weak magnetic storms: 5, 6, 30 April;
- Moderate storms: 1, 2, 9, 10, 15, 16, 17 April;
- Strong magnetic storms: 12, 25, 26 April.
Even healthy people can experience significant disturbances. Moderate disturbances mainly affect people who are sensitive to weather changes. Weak disturbances are unlikely to cause any particular discomfort.
During geomagnetic fluctuations, a person may experience mood swings and poor well-being, irritability, anxiety, increased or decreased blood pressure, headaches, drowsiness or insomnia, rapid heartbeat, etc.
How the impact of magnetic storms on health has been reduced
Weather-sensitive people need to monitor geomagnetic activity forecasts regularly. This will allow them to prepare in advance and reduce the negative impact on their well-being.
During these days, it is advisable to reduce physical and psychological stress, ensure adequate sleep, maintain water balance in the body (drink at least 2 litres of water per day), and avoid fatty foods and alcohol. Add walks to your daily routine or at least ventilate the room more often: fresh air will help improve your well-being.
The most powerful storms in history
The Carrington Event (1859) – the sun ejected an unprecedented amount of magnetised plasma, causing a mighty storm. It destroyed telegraph lines around the world, causing fires. At its peak, the storm reached a maximum level of G5 (Kp=9).
The ‘Fatima storm’ of 1938 - massive solar emissions lasted for more than 9 hours in a row. Transatlantic radio communications were interrupted entirely for 12 hours. The aurora borealis was so strong that people around the world mistook it for fire and fires.
1989 – In Canada, a magnetic storm left an entire Canadian province without electricity for 9 hours. Even above Simferopol, the Northern Lights were observed at this time. Satellites lost contact with Earth, and the Northern Lights were even seen in Mexico.
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