The number of days with magnetic storms in 2025 has become a record: details

In 2025, the number of days with magnetic storms reached its maximum in the last ten years, and the total number of geomagnetically disturbed days reached a record in two decades. The anomalous activity of the Sun, expressed in an unusually large number of coronal holes, triggered a series of powerful events, including the strongest magnetic storm of the year, which ended in November. All the details are in the Izvestia article.

What is known about record-breaking geomagnetic activity

The number of days with magnetic storms in the past year has significantly exceeded the figures of the previous period and has become one of the largest in the last two decades. According to astronomers, over the past 358 days, magnetic storms have already been observed in 69 cases, while only 44 were recorded in the whole of 2024. Even more significant was the increase in the total number of geomagnetically disturbed days, of which there are 164 this year compared to 94 a year earlier.

According to the latest data, the last time comparable figures for storms were recorded were in 2015 and 2016, and in terms of the total number of disturbed days, a higher level was observed only in 2005. The main reason for the increase was the abnormally high activity of the Sun, expressed in the formation of numerous coronal holes that dominate solar activity, eclipsing flares. Experts note that there are no signs of a decrease in their number or size yet, which may mean a continuation of the period of increased geomagnetic activity in early 2026.

At the same time, 2003 remains the absolute record holder of the 21st century, when 272 geomagnetically disturbed days were recorded, including 154 days with magnetic storms. The absolute minimum occurred in 2009, when there was only 4 storm, and then in the ranking of the most peaceful years go by 2020 and 2019 years.

Magnetic storm forecast for 2026: record geomagnetic activity expected

What powerful storms occurred at the end of the year

In December, the Earth was hit by the second of two plasma emissions that occurred on the Sun on December 7-8, which led to a new episode of geomagnetic disturbances. According to the Laboratory of Solar Astronomy at the Institute of Space Research (IKI) of the Russian Academy of Sciences, the strength of this storm ranged from mild to moderate. This event was preceded by a series of outbreaks, including a powerful X2.1 high-end flare recorded on December 8, as well as several M-class events.

In addition, strong G2–G3 magnetic storms were forecast from December 9 to December 10, which could affect the operation of satellites and communication systems. According to scientists, these disturbances were caused by the release of plasma after an M8.1 class flare, the center of which was directed directly at the Earth, which increased the impact. The peak of magnetic disturbances was expected in the afternoon of December 9, and their influence could last until Thursday.

Experts emphasize that the strongest magnetic storm of the year was the November geomagnetic storm, which lasted 42 hours. According to the IKI RAS, this storm, which reached a level close to the maximum G5, was triggered by the arrival of plasma clouds to the planet from extreme solar activity. It caused serious interference in the operation of spacecraft and contributed to the formation of powerful auroras, visible also in the northern regions of Russia.

How storms affect technology and human health

Magnetic storms are a high-risk factor for technical systems, disrupting radio communications, reducing the accuracy of satellite navigation, and posing threats to energy networks. It is reported that streams of charged particles can disable satellites, increase the radiation load on astronauts and flight crews flying at high latitudes. The impact on infrastructure requires special protection measures and adjustments to critical services.

At the same time, weather-dependent people may experience a deterioration in their well-being during periods of geomagnetic disturbances. Olga Ryabenkova, Deputy Chief Physician for Inpatient care at the K+31 clinic, told Izvestia that the risk group includes hypertensive patients, patients with cardiovascular and neurological diseases. The reaction can manifest itself in the form of headaches, pressure surges, insomnia and increased fatigue.

Ryabenkova noted that storms often bring only mild fatigue and changes in emotional state to people with good health. However, to minimize the negative impact, the specialist recommends that you prepare in advance for such periods, especially for those who are at risk. Scientific studies have documented an increase in requests for medical help during severe storms, although the degree of individual susceptibility can vary significantly.

All important news is on the Izvestia channel in the MAX messenger.