When to expect magnetic storms in December 2025
December is traditionally a time of pre—holiday fuss and preparation for the New Year. During this period, it is especially important to maintain vigor and well-being. However, weather-dependent people should be on their guard. The end of the year may be accompanied by a series of geomagnetic fluctuations that can affect health. They can lead to headaches, insomnia and affect concentration, which is most dangerous for drivers. For more information, see the Izvestia article.
What are magnetic storms and how do they occur?
Magnetic storms are perturbations of the Earth's magnetic field caused by streams of charged particles from the Sun that reach our planet as a result of flares and solar emissions. These phenomena can cause disruptions to satellites, communication systems, and power grids, as well as lead to auroras. The larger the volume of charged particles, the longer the storm lasts and the stronger its impact on the planet.
The danger of a magnetic storm is determined by its intensity level, which is indicated by the Dst index. This indicator is calculated using magnetometers located at stations on the Earth's magnetic equator. For ease of understanding, scientists use the G index, which indicates a separate geomagnetic storm hazard level from 1 to 5, where 1 corresponds to a calm environment and 5 to a large—scale magnetic storm.
Graph of magnetic storms in December 2025
According to preliminary forecasts based on solar activity data, December 2025 will be relatively calm in geomagnetic terms. Major magnetic storms of the highest class (G4 or G5) are not expected. Nevertheless, several weak disturbances (class G1) are predicted during the month. The most dangerous will be the end of the year, when sufficiently powerful magnetic storms are likely.:
December 3-4 — slight fluctuations in the magnetic field;
December 10-11 — moderate magnetic storm period;
December 17-18 — increased solar activity;
December 26-28 — strong geomagnetic surge is possible.
It should be borne in mind that forecasts of solar activity are likely and may be updated.
The effect of magnetic storms on human well-being
The scientific community continues to study the relationship between geomagnetic storms and human health. According to research, people with chronic heart and vascular diseases, as well as disorders of the autonomic nervous system, are at risk.
Ekaterina Demyanovskaya, an expert at the Hemotest laboratory, told Izvestia that blood flow slows down during magnetic storms in blood vessels. At the same time, the heart rate decreases, which causes an arrhythmia.
During geomagnetic disturbances, the risk of dizziness and headaches is high. Aching and pulling pain in the joints is also one of the symptoms of weather dependence. In addition, during this period, high or low blood pressure occurs, causing pressure in the eye sockets.
Other symptoms:
- drowsiness or insomnia;
- Feeling tired;
- decreased concentration of attention;
- low reaction rate;
- increased anxiety.
Special attention should be paid to road safety on such days. Experts say that any of these symptoms can affect the ability to drive safely. Reaction speed and clarity of thinking are important when driving, and feeling unwell inevitably reduces them.
How can weather-dependent people protect themselves from the effects of storms
During magnetic storms, weather-dependent people should pay increased attention to their health. According to Andrey Tyazhelnikov, chief freelance specialist in primary health care at the Moscow Department of Health, first of all, the work schedule should be adjusted and, if possible, tasks requiring a high level of concentration should be postponed.
People with serious chronic diseases need to reduce their mental and emotional stress, in particular, avoid stress and overwork by increasing the amount of sleep and rest. It would not be superfluous to give up coffee, not to eat fried and flour.
In food, it is recommended to give preference to foods that are rich in magnesium and potassium — bananas, nuts, spinach and avocado. Leisurely walks in the fresh air will also help to normalize the condition.
Thus, knowing in advance about the approaching magnetic storms, you can minimize their negative impact and adjust your regime by following the simple recommendations of doctors. This will allow you to meet the December storms and prepare for the New Year in good shape.
Where to find out the forecast of magnetic storms for the month
There are several resources where you can find out the forecast of magnetic storms for the current date, week or month. Such forecasts, for example, are published by the Laboratory of Solar Astronomy at the Institute of Space Research (IKI) of the Russian Academy of Sciences. Experts monitor the activity of the Sun and can accurately predict solar flares and the magnetic storms caused by them thanks to modern technologies.
You can find out if there are magnetic storms and how strong they are, as well as view the forecast of storms for a specific region on the websites or in the applications of the Yandex.Weather and Weather Mail services.
Earlier, Izvestia wrote that in Russia it was proposed to be released from work during magnetic storms.
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