A magnetic storm is heading towards Earth: how powerful will the storm be on 20 March?
Following a brief period of reduced activity due to the current effects of coronal holes, the Earth will soon be hit by a powerful magnetic storm.
On Friday, 20 March, a K-index of around 6.3 is expected. This corresponds to the red level and indicates intense magnetic storms.
The publication notes that scientists have reported a powerful solar flare that occurred recently. This will result in an increase in geomagnetic activity to a STORM G3-level magnetic storm.
The article also explains that solar flares, or geomagnetic storms, are internal reactions within the Sun. These include solar mass ejections and surface flares, which release energy in all directions.
Such phenomena occur when powerful bursts of energy release charged particles, mainly protons and electrons. Upon colliding with Earth’s atmosphere, these particles cause various effects – from the aurora to power grid failures.
Solar flares are classified by radiation intensity into classes A, B, C, M and X, where A is the weakest and X is the strongest. Each class is divided into nine categories, for example C1–C9, with each successive class being ten times more powerful than the previous one. Solar flares are often accompanied by coronal mass ejections.
The article also notes that magnetic storms cause the aurora borealis, but can cause significant damage to electronics, power grids, as well as satellite and radio communications.
To minimise the impact of magnetic storms, the publication advises getting enough sleep and sleeping for at least eight hours a day, staying hydrated and drinking clean water throughout the day, as well as reviewing your daily diet – opting for light meals and avoiding alcohol.
