Geomagnetic Storm Alert: Viewing the Northern Lights and Managing Health Impacts
Geomagnetic storm alert has been issued for the week starting Monday, July 29, and ending Wednesday, July 31. The recent surge in solar activity, including an X1 flare on Sunday evening, July 28, and a series of sun flares over the weekend, has increased the chances of seeing the northern lights across many northern states and parts of the lower Midwest and Oregon, according to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA).
NASA reported the heightened solar activity on Facebook, while NOAA explained that the geomagnetic storm watch issued on Monday is due to several anticipated coronal mass ejections (CMEs) directed toward Earth. These CME's cause geomagnetic storms when solar plasma interacts with Earth's magnetic field. Over the past week, the sun has unleashed 28 CMEs, significantly raising geomagnetic activity levels.
NASA likens these solar phenomena to the sun ‘burping’ out enormous bubbles of electrified gas that accelerate through space. These interactions trigger stunning auroras in the sky. "Oxygen gives off green and red light, while nitrogen glows blue and purple," NASA noted on its website.
On July 31, a moderate geomagnetic storm was forecasted, with a kIndex level of 6 indicating potential moderate impacts on weather-sensitive individuals. Such conditions can cause fluctuations in Earth's magnetic field, disrupting GPS systems and satellite communications. For those sensitive to weather changes, symptoms might include headaches, migraines, fatigue, or mood swings.
Individuals affected by these disruptions are advised to stay hydrated, rest adequately, and minimize prolonged screen exposure. Practicing relaxation techniques or mindfulness exercises can further help mitigate the storm's effects on health. Although a kIndex level of 6 is moderate, awareness and self-care during this time are crucial to alleviate any adverse impacts.
Earlier, SSP wrote that coronal mass ejection will cause a geomagnetic storm.
