0 an occasion when the magnetic field (= the area of magnetic force around something) of the earth or another planet, a star, etc. is disturbed (= interrupted or changed):
Some scientists believe there is a link between magnetic storms, which are common in spring and autumn, and whale strandings.
Powerful X-rays called hard X-rays are created by particles supercharged in the sun's violent magnetic storms.
There had been a magnetic storm, a maelstrom caused by a temporary disturbance of the earth's magnetic field.
Spacecraft electronics systems are at particular risk during magnetic storms.
