Most powerful magnetic storm of this year is approaching Earth: How to protect yourself during this phenomenon?

The strongest magnetic storm since the beginning of the year is approaching the Earth, which will reach its maximum intensity on the morning of February 13, but the consequences of the geomagnetic anomaly will be felt for one more day. What can and can't be done during magnetic storms?

Magnetic storms

On February 13, the Earth will be covered by a G1 magnetic storm. The reason for this is the powerful flare on the Sun, which scientists recorded a few days ago. Such natural phenomena can pose a significant threat, as they can cause interference with electronic systems and infrastructure, as well as impair the well-being of people who depend on the weather. There will be a change in the geomagnetic background, which will reach its peak this morning, but the effects of the storm will not fade so quickly. The worsening of the geomagnetic situation will be felt until the evening of February 14.

There are a total of five levels in the classification of magnetic storms, from G1 to G5. A mild storm is expected to cause minor disruptions to power systems and affect bird and animal migration routes. Severe storms cause disruptions to short-wave communications and navigation systems, as well as power outages in industrial networks.

What do doctors say about magnetic storms?

Doctors warn that although the impact of magnetic storms on human health has not been proven, the deterioration of the geomagnetic situation has an inexplicable effect on the well-being of people with chronic diseases and diseases of the cardiovascular system. People with low blood pressure, anemia, bronchial asthma and previous fractures also often complain of unpleasant symptoms.

Solar flares usually affect not only patients with hypertension or cardiovascular diseases, but also people with immune function disorders, nervous system diseases and mental problems.

What to do during a magnetic storm? 

In case of a magnetic storm, experts give the following advice.

• Ventilate the room well to avoid hypoxia and minimize the effects of geomagnetic storms on your body.
• Drink more water and avoid sugary, carbonated and tonic drinks. Instead of tea, it is better to choose herbal teas based on mint and chamomile. Alcohol is strictly prohibited during magnetic storms.
• Try to reduce your stress levels during magnetic storms, as this will increase stress on the nervous system, affect your heart rate and can cause headaches.
• Try to get more rest and less activity to give your body a chance to recover. Make sure you get at least 7-8 hours of sleep a night. If you can't get enough sleep, ask your doctor to prescribe a medication based on melatonin, the sleep hormone.