An ‘extreme’ geomagnetic storm, rated 5 out of 5 by the Space Weather Prediction Center, is underway, reminiscent of 2003. The sun, currently in a phase of heightened activity known as solar maximum, is expected to continue its robust performance through mid-to-late 2024. This surge in solar activity dazzles with vibrant auroras but poses communication disruptions also. With the sun in a heightened phase of solar maximum, potent solar flares and coronal mass ejections will persist, which can impact Earth’s ionosphere and GPS systems. The Sun emitted two strong solar flares, peaking at 5:40pm ET on May 8, 2024, and 5:13am ET on May 9, 2024. Shedding light on the current situation, the Scientific Officer of the Institute of Plasma Research Centre Ahmedabad, Dr Ravi A V Kumar said, “Solar flares happen all the time. It’s like the sun is getting at the peak of its activity. The chances of more solar flares coming out at this point is higher. The solar flare that was emitted came out from a very active solar region. Highly charged particles of plasma and these charged particles can travel at a very high velocity. The faster these particle moves more dangerous they are. These charged particles come in contact with the polar region of the earth where they react with the gas molecules of the upper atmosphere and form Aurora Borealis.” Astronomer and Professor RC Kapoor informed, “Currently, the sun is passing through its strong phase of activity. These solar flares are emitted very often but if solar flares are directed toward Earth then it is a bit of a worrying situation. It can cause power cuts and disrupt technological lives.”