Is Earth’s magnetic North Pole is shifting fast? Here's what study says

Earth’s magnetic north pole is shifting toward Siberia. Scientists explain how it affects navigation, research and technology. (Image: JSC/NASA)

Earth’s magnetic north pole has officially moved again. It is now drifting faster toward Russia than Canada. Scientists have updated its position in the 2025 World Magnetic Model. Scientists study this migration to understand the forces shaping Earth’s geomagnetic field.

The magnetic north pole is shifting because Earth’s molten outer core is constantly moving. Flows of liquid iron create changes in Earth’s magnetic field, pushing the pole eastward.

Its location is no longer near northern Canada, instead it is moving toward Siberia. This rapid migration is unusual and has accelerated over the past decades. The shift is a natural process, but it highlights that Earth’s magnetic field is dynamic, not static.

Yes, the magnetic pole’s movement poses challenges for scientists. Research relying on precise compass directions and satellite data can be disrupted. Air and sea navigation, geophysics studies and military operations depend on magnetic models.

The north magnetic pole, the point on the Earth where a compass needle would point down, is sliding about 35 miles closer to Russia each year. (Image: Jonathan Corum)

Even small misalignments can cause errors in aircraft and submarine navigation. Regular updates to models like NOAA’s World Magnetic Model help scientists stay accurate.

The magnetic north pole is no longer near northern Canada. It has been moving steadily toward Siberia in Russia over recent decades. This drift is part of a long-term movement caused by molten iron flows in Earth’s outer core.

Currently, it is travelling roughly 35–60 kilometres per year eastward. The shift affects regions close to the Arctic Circle the most. Air traffic, polar research stations and navigation systems in Canada, Greenland and Russia must adjust. Even satellites and GPS services globally rely on updated data for accuracy.

For residents, the shift poses no immediate danger. Earth’s magnetic field still protects the planet from solar radiation. GPS, compasses and navigation systems remain safe as long as models are updated. The drift may slightly affect migratory animals that rely on magnetic cues. Other than minor technological adjustments, the planet and humans are safe.

Despite rapid migration, a full reversal is not imminent. Magnetic reversals are rare and occur over thousands of years. Scientists continue monitoring Earth’s magnetic field for signs of drastic changes. The pole’s current drift is part of normal, long-term geophysical processes. It shows that Earth’s magnetic field is dynamic, constantly evolving.

Experts treat the shift as a challenge, not a disaster. It is manageable through updated magnetic models and careful planning. Monitoring helps predict changes and prevent navigation errors. Scientists describe it as a natural phenomenon, not a threat to life. The ongoing research improves understanding of Earth’s inner workings and magnetic field behaviour.