A disconnect switch includes a case having a movable contact, a stationary contact and a plurality of magnets. The movable contact is adapted to move from a first closed position where it is in physical contact with the stationary contact to a second open position. The magnets are located at predefined locations and in predefined orientations about the axis of movement of the movable contact, whereby upon the movement of the movable contact from the first position to the second open position, a current arc created by the movable contact is extinguished.