The Earth’s magnetic field is changing and accelerating. In recent decades, the North Magnetic Pole has been moving faster and faster – at the end of the 20th century, the rate was about 10 km per year, but in the 21st century it has accelerated to about 50-60 km per year.
The magnetic pole is currently moving from the Canadian Arctic toward Siberia. These changes are the result of dynamic processes in the Earth’s liquid core, which generates the Earth’s magnetic field.
Consequences of changes in the Earth’s magnetic field
Navigational impacts – GPS is not directly dependent on the magnetic field, but magnetic compasses used in aviation, shipping, and land navigation must be regularly calibrated. Airlines, navies, and ships must adjust navigation maps to reflect the magnetic pole shift. Systems used in underground mining and oil/gas exploration may require more frequent updates.
Migratory impacts – many animals, such as birds, sea turtles, whales, bees, and salmon, rely on the magnetic field for orientation. Rapid changes can cause disorientation and disrupt their migrations.
Weakening of the field and impact on the atmosphere – the magnetic field protects the Earth from charged particles in the solar wind. When the magnetic field weakens (as it currently does), it can lead to an increase in radiation reaching the atmosphere, especially in regions with less protection. It can also cause more frequent disruptions to radio communications and satellite networks.
Possibility of a pole reversal – Earth’s magnetic poles have flipped many times in history (switching north to south and vice versa). It is not known whether the current changes will lead to such an event, but it could take thousands of years. During a pole reversal, the magnetic field may be unstable and weaker, increasing the risk to technology and the atmosphere.
The impact of magnetic field changes on humans
Human health – the direct impact of magnetic fields on health is minimal, as the human body is not sensitive to these changes. However, increased cosmic radiation (due to a weakened field) could theoretically increase the risk of DNA mutations and disease. However, this is a long-term effect.
Influence on the psyche and orientation – there are hypotheses that some people may be sensitive to changes in the magnetic field, which could affect their well-being, but there is no clear evidence for this.
The impact of magnetic field changes on technologies
Navigation systems – magnetic compasses are becoming less accurate, requiring regular adjustments to navigation maps. GPS is used in aviation and shipping, but magnetic compasses are still essential in emergencies. Pipelines and underground cables can be designed with the magnetic field in mind, and changes in the field can cause problems with monitoring them.
Communications and satellites – the magnetic field protects Earth from solar storms. A weakening field can lead to more interference with satellite, radio, and GPS systems. Space stations and satellites are exposed to more radiation, reducing their lifespan.
Power grids – stronger geomagnetic storms can induce currents in power grids, which can lead to outages and blackouts. In 1989, a geomagnetic storm caused a power grid failure in Quebec, Canada, which led to a blackout lasting several hours.