In January 2025, scientists anticipate the occurrence of magnetic storms lasting around one day, with expectations that they will be weak and not exceed the G1 index level.
Magnetic storms are disturbances in the Earth's magnetic field caused by solar activity, such as strong solar flares and subsequent energy emissions. These storms impact the Earth's magnetosphere, disrupting its normal dynamics.
Following a solar flare, a release of ionized gas occurs from the sun's atmosphere. Each such release can contain up to 10 billion tons of material traveling through space at an average speed of 400 kilometers per second, with rapid emissions reaching up to 2000 kilometers per second.
Scientists assess the type of solar flare, its danger level, and predict its consequences. Various systems, including the widely recognized G index developed by the U.S. National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration in 1999, are employed to determine the intensity of magnetic storms and their impact on electronic devices, humans, and animals.
As solar activity is monitored, researchers study solar wind variations, radiation conditions in near-Earth space, solar flares across different ranges, sunspot changes, and coronal mass ejections.
Observations are conducted by the Federal Service for Hydrometeorology and Environmental Monitoring using instruments located both on Earth and in space. The results are analyzed to create forecasts of space weather and magnetic storms.
The relevance of space weather forecasts is increasing annually, with the potential for significant impacts on engineering systems both in space and on Earth.
Experts caution that long-term forecasts lack precision, as the strength and timing of storms can only be accurately predicted hours in advance. Information in forecasts is often updated with more current data.
While there is no conclusive evidence that magnetic storms affect nature, they can lead to auroras being visible at latitudes far from the poles when charged particles from the solar wind are redirected towards the Earth's magnetic poles.
Geomagnetic storms can disrupt satellites, electrical systems, radio communications, GPS, and other navigation systems, as they interfere with signal propagation in the ionosphere. The ability of magnetic storms to generate electric currents in metallic objects can lead to significant voltage spikes, fires, and explosions.
Protecting technology from magnetic storms is crucial for large industrial enterprises where electrical fluctuations can result in severe negative consequences.
While the impact of magnetic storms on technical devices is well-documented, the effects on human health remain a subject of ongoing research. Most individuals are not at significant risk from magnetic storms, though some may experience symptoms such as headaches, sleep disturbances, and fluctuations in blood pressure during these periods.
Older adults are particularly sensitive to magnetic storms, as chronic illnesses and reduced adaptive capabilities increase with age. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle is the primary preventive measure against the adverse effects of magnetic storms.