on January 1, a powerful magnetic storm hit the Earth: how to protect yourself

1 January 12:32

As of January 1, 2026, a powerful magnetic storm caused by an active solar flare was recorded over the Earth. This geomagnetic disturbance affects the magnetosphere of our planet and can have both man-made and physiological consequences for people. This is reported by the website meteoagent.com, "Komersant Ukrainian" informs

According to experts, the level of solar activity has reached a K-index of 5 out of 9 possible, which is a red level of danger.

Such an indicator is classified as a strong magnetic storm that can affect the health and well-being of weather-dependent people. Such a storm can cause headaches, fatigue, blood pressure fluctuations, and sleep problems in sensitive people.

Note that the forecast is subject to change as solar researchers update their data every three hours.

What happened: solar flare and magnetic storm

At the beginning of January 1, the Sun emitted a powerful flare (solar coronal mass ejection) – a huge stream of charged particles that rushed towards the Earth. When these particles reach the magnetosphere, they cause a geomagnetic disturbance, or magnetic storm.

Such phenomena occur as a result of the Sun’s activity, in particular during peaks of solar activity, and are regular, but their intensity can vary.

How it affects the Earth

Man-made effects

A magnetic storm can cause interruptions or failures in

satellite communications and GPS navigation;
power grids (voltage fluctuations);
radio communications, especially in polar latitudes;
aviation and maritime navigation systems.

Operators of critical networks and services may be warned of an increased risk of technical failures.

Impact on the human body

Some people are sensitive to magnetic storms:

headache, dizziness
sleep disturbances
general weakness;
changes in blood pressure.

This is especially noticeable for people with cardiovascular disease, hypertension, epilepsy, or autonomic disorders.

How to protect yourself during a magnetic storm

Although magnetic storms are irresistible, you can minimize their impact:

For your well-being

get enough rest, be less nervous;
get more sleep and have a regular daily routine;
avoid alcohol and caffeine;
drink more water;
in case of pressure sensitivity, have medications approved by your doctor at hand.