Geomagnetic storms raging on the surface of the Sun are continuing to unleash powerful solar flares. At 2251 GMT on 2 April, an explosion produced the most intense flare since the last peak in solar activity, 12 years ago. But this time, the stream of hot ionised gas was not directed towards Earth.
Fire storm
The Sun's current bout of violent activity continues, with the most powerful solar flare in 12 years