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Frequently Asked Questions

Everything you need to know about solar storms and your health

Solar Storm Basics
What is a solar storm?

A solar storm is a disturbance in Earth's magnetic field caused by activity on the Sun. The Sun releases bursts of charged particles called coronal mass ejections (CMEs). When these reach Earth — typically 1 to 3 days later — they can cause geomagnetic storms.

Storms are measured on the Kp index (0–9) and NOAA's G-scale (G1–G5). Kp 5+ means a geomagnetic storm is in progress.

What is the Kp index?

The Kp index is a global measure of geomagnetic activity (0–9), calculated every 3 hours from magnetometer stations worldwide. Kp 0–2 is quiet, Kp 3–4 is unsettled, Kp 5+ is a storm.

What are solar flares?

Solar flares are sudden bursts of energy from the Sun's surface, classified by X-ray intensity: A/B (background), C (minor), M (moderate — brief radio blackouts), X (major — can disrupt communications and GPS).

How often do solar storms happen?

Minor disturbances (Kp 4–5) occur several times per month. Moderate storms (Kp 6–7) happen a few times per year. Severe storms (Kp 8–9) are rare. We are currently near solar maximum (2024–2026), so storms are more frequent.

What do the G, S, and R scales mean?

NOAA's official scales: G (Geomagnetic, G1–G5), S (Solar Radiation), R (Radio Blackout). For health effects, the G-scale (tied to Kp) is most relevant.

Health Effects
Can solar storms really affect health?

Multiple studies have found correlations between geomagnetic activity and health effects. Research documents increased hospital admissions, cardiovascular events, and mood disturbances during storms.

Common symptoms: headaches, fatigue, sleep disturbances, irritability, blood pressure changes. An estimated 10–15% of people are particularly weather-sensitive (wetterfühlig).

Why do some people feel solar storms more than others?

Sensitivity varies by genetics, existing health conditions, age, stress levels, and overall health. People who are already weather-sensitive tend to notice effects more strongly.

What can I do to reduce symptoms?

Most effective strategies: magnesium (400mg glycinate before bed), glycine (3g before bed), extra hydration, and reducing intense activity during Kp 5+ events. Also important: limit caffeine, avoid alcohol, reduce screen time.

Can solar flares cause headaches?

The mechanism is indirect. Strong flares (M/X class) produce coronal mass ejections that arrive 1–3 days later as geomagnetic storms. It is the geomagnetic storm that research links to headaches, not the flare itself.

Using This Dashboard
Where does the data come from?

All data comes from NOAA's Space Weather Prediction Center (SWPC), the official U.S. government source. Public JSON feeds update every 1–3 minutes.

How often does the dashboard update?

Every 60 seconds automatically. Manual refresh available at the bottom of the page.

Is this free?

Yes, completely free. No account, no paywall. Supported by advertising.

Can I get alerts?

Yes — join our Telegram channel for push notifications. Email alerts coming soon.

Is the health advice medical advice?

No. The recommendations are for informational purposes, based on published research and biohacking experience. Consult your doctor before starting any supplement protocol.