Magnetic storms in January 2025: calendar and recommendations
Kyiv • UNN
In January 2025, magnetic storms of varying intensity are predicted, with the most active period from January 1 to 18. The strongest disturbances are expected on January 1 and 16 with a Kp index of up to 5.
Several magnetic storms of varying intensity are expected in January 2025, which may affect the health of weather-dependent people and those with chronic diseases.
Forecasts from different sources have discrepancies, but UNN has collected information from several reliable resources to provide a general picture.
What are magnetic storms and how do they occur
A magnetic storm is a natural phenomenon when large explosions (solar flares) occur on the Sun, which eject huge streams of energy and charged particles into space. This stream, called the solar wind, moves toward the Earth. When these particles collide with the Earth's magnetic field (which we call the magnetosphere), a disturbance occurs - a magnetic storm. This can cause certain changes on Earth, such as affecting human health or even disrupting satellites and navigation systems.
The level of magnetic storms is measured on the Kp-index scale (or geomagnetic activity index):
- 0-3: calm state.
- 4-5: weak storm.
- 6-7: moderate storm.
- 8-9: severe storm.
Calendar of magnetic storms in January 2025
Data according to Meteoagent forecasts
According to Meteoagent , the following periods of magnetic activity are expected:
- January 1: weak storm (Kp=5).
- 2 - 9: calm geomagnetic situation (Kp=3 and below).
- January 10: weak activity (Kp=4).
- January 11 - 15: calm geomagnetic situation (Kp=3 and below).
- January 16: a weak storm (Kp=4).
- January 17 - 26: the magnetic field is quiet (Kp=3 and below).
It should be noted that this forecast is updated every 10 minutes, as such data comes from the Sun's activity.
Forecast from MyCalendar
The data of MyCalendar partially coincide with the Meteoagent forecast. Significant magnetic storms are possible only from January 1 to 18, and then there are no noticeable disturbances. Weak activity is forecast for January 1, 4, 5, 9, 10, 15, 16 (Kp=4 and below)
The second half of the month will be mostly calm.
Note that the differences in the sources are due to different methods of modeling magnetic activity.
How magnetic storms affect health
Weather-dependent people and people with chronic illnesses are most often negatively affected by magnetic storms.
Main symptoms:
- Headache and dizziness.
- Changes in blood pressure. People with hypertension or hypotension may experience a worsening of their condition.
- Sleep problems. Some people complain of insomnia or excessive sleepiness.
- Irritability and emotional fluctuations.
Strong magnetic storms can affect even healthy people, causing fatigue and general weakness.
Recommendations during magnetic storms
During magnetic storms, it is important to pay attention to how you feel. It is advisable to avoid stressful situations and physical overload, as this can worsen your health. It is also helpful to maintain your water balance, drink more clean water, and reduce your consumption of alcohol and caffeine, which can increase anxiety or contribute to exhaustion.
If you are a weather-dependent person or have a chronic illness, it is important to monitor your health and consult a doctor if necessary. During periods of magnetic storms, you should also ensure quality sleep by reducing physical and mental activity in the evening. If possible, try to spend more time outdoors, as walks can help relieve stress and improve your well-being.
