Magnetic storm on 20 April 2026: what will the geomagnetic activity be like?

Katerina Melnychenko
Katerina Melnychenko Deputy Editor-in-Chief
Magnetic storm on 20 April 2026: what will the geomagnetic activity be like?
20 April 2026: geomagnetic conditions, according to the current forecast by NOAA SWPC
On 20 April 2026, the geomagnetic conditions are expected to be free of extreme disturbances, but with noticeable fluctuations throughout the day. According to the current forecast from the NOAA SWPC, there will be no full-blown G1-level geomagnetic storm during the day, although weather-sensitive individuals may experience some discomfort at certain times.

This is stated in the NOAA SWPC forecast. The

main indicator used in the forecast is the Kp index, which measures the level of disturbance in the Earth’s magnetic field at three-hour intervals. For 20 April, the forecast Kp values are mostly expected to remain within the range of 2.0–3.67, i.e. below the threshold for a weak G1 magnetic storm, which, according to the NOAA scale, begins at Kp 5. The probability of an active geomagnetic day is estimated at 45%, whilst the probability of a G1-class storm is only 15%. This is why the day is considered to be moderately unsettled rather than stormy.

When activity will be higher

According to NOAA’s 3-day forecast, the most noticeable fluctuations are expected in the first half of the day. In Kyiv time, increased activity is forecast between 03:00–06:00 and 06:00–09:00, when the Kp may rise to 3.67. The evening period from 18:00 to 21:00 is expected to be relatively calmer, with a forecast Kp of around 2.00. For the remainder of the day, the geomagnetic background is assessed as moderate.

We would like to clarify that 20 April does not appear to be a day of a strong magnetic storm; however, sensitive individuals may still experience headaches, fatigue, irritability, fluctuations in blood pressure or sleep disturbances. At the same time, the author specifically cautions that it is incorrect to speak of a guaranteed effect of geomagnetic fluctuations on every person, as such links remain a matter of debate.

Given the forecast, it is advised not to overexert yourself on 20 April, to get a good night’s sleep the night before, and to consume less coffee, alcohol and heavy meals, especially in the morning. People with cardiovascular diseases, high blood pressure or chronic headaches are advised to monitor their daily routine and well-being more closely. If symptoms are accompanied by chest pain, a sudden spike in blood pressure or dizziness, one should seek medical assistance rather than relying on the magnetic storm forecast.

Thus, 20 April 2026 should be regarded as a day of moderate geomagnetic activity with no signs of a severe magnetic storm. The night and early morning hours may be the most intense, whilst the situation is expected to be calmer in the evening.

As reported by ThePublic, on 19 April 2026, believers will mark the first Sunday after Easter. In the church tradition, this day is known as Antipascha, or Thomas Sunday.

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