How magnetic storms affect humans. Answers to the main questions

The magnetic storm that began on Earth on the night of November 11-12 has already passed its maximum, but its impact persisted until the night of November 13. Now the Sun's activity has weakened: after a series of powerful flares, it temporarily ran out of energy for new emissions. What you need to know about magnetic storms is in the Izvestia article.

What are magnetic storms?

• Magnetic storms are a natural phenomenon that occurs when streams of charged particles from the Sun (for example, during solar flares) reach the Earth and affect its magnetic field. Because of this, it begins to "fluctuate" and change.

• Scientists explain that a magnetic storm takes place in several stages. At first, a slight disturbance (collision) occurs when the solar wind "hits" the Earth's magnetic field. Then comes the strongest moment, the main phase of the storm. Then the magnetic field gradually calms down and returns to normal. All this can last from several hours to several days. It depends on how powerful the solar outburst was.

• The most powerful magnetic storm of this year was recorded on Earth from November 11 to 13. During the peak, the geomagnetic index reached G4.3–G4.7, a record high in 2025, although the predicted maximum of G5 was never recorded. After a series of strong solar flares, the star's activity has noticeably decreased due to lack of energy, and the probability of new powerful emissions is now extremely low. A prolonged period of calm is expected, which may last until the end of November.

A series of powerful flares occurred on the Sun. What you need to know

What are the dangers of magnetic storms?

• Magnetic storms are considered a high-risk factor for technical systems. They can disrupt radio communications, especially on long and short waves, and reduce the accuracy of satellite navigation system signals. This is becoming a serious problem, particularly for aviation and maritime transport. The electric power infrastructure is also sensitive to magnetic disturbances: during severe storms, currents arise that can cause emergency power outages.

• Satellites are also exposed to streams of charged particles, which can disrupt their operation or even disable them. Astronauts receive increased doses of radiation during such events, which requires strict protection measures and adjustments to space missions. Pilots and passengers of flights at high latitudes also find themselves under conditions of increased radiation exposure, although it is not critical for short flights, but with frequent flights it can have a cumulative effect.

How do magnetic storms affect humans?

• The effect on humans is mainly manifested in changes in the well-being of weather-sensitive people. Magnetic storms are associated with blood pressure fluctuations, headaches, irritability, sleep disorders, and increased fatigue. People with chronic diseases of the cardiovascular system and nervous regulation are especially susceptible to them.

• Scientific studies show that during periods of strong magnetic storms, the number of requests for medical help increases and an increase in the number of cardiovascular complications is recorded. However, scientists do not have a consensus on how storms affect humans, as the degree of impact is individual. So, some people do not feel the changes, others react even to weak magnetic storms.

Magnetic storms in November 2025: forecast and impact

When to expect strong disturbances in November

What should weather-sensitive people do?

• First of all, the daily routine is of great importance. It is worth going to bed and getting up at the same time, so as not to overload the nervous system and give the body a sense of stability. Getting enough sleep these days is especially important, so it's better to give up gadgets before going to bed. For relaxation, you can use a warm bath or a walk in the fresh air.

• Also, on days of magnetic storms, you should reduce the amount of fatty and salty foods that put strain on blood vessels and the heart. It is recommended to include in the diet vegetables, fruits, foods rich in magnesium and potassium, which support the functioning of the cardiovascular system. Sufficient water intake helps to avoid dehydration, which can worsen headaches.

• Physical activity should be moderate. It is better to postpone intensive workouts so as not to provoke overload, but light loads will be useful, as they improve blood circulation and reduce stress levels. Staying in nature, where the air is saturated with oxygen, has a particularly positive effect.

• Medications should be used only as prescribed by a doctor. People with cardiovascular diseases are advised to discuss possible dosage adjustments with a specialist in advance. Magnetic storms also affect the nervous system, so conflict situations and overexertion should be avoided. For example, breathing exercises and calm music help to maintain emotional balance. It is also useful to limit the use of alcohol and caffeine, as they increase the load on the heart and blood vessels.

When writing the material, Izvestia interviewed:

• Alexey Karnaukhov, a leading researcher at the Pushchino Scientific Center of the Russian Academy of Sciences, a climatologist and biophysicist;
• Irina Golovacheva, clinical psychologist, ecologist, Deputy Director of the Patrice Lumumba Institute of Ecology at the RUDN University;
• Associate Professor, member of the Public Council of the Basic Organization of the CIS Member States for Environmental Education Vladimir Pinaev.