this is probably the "double max"
with the solar magnetic field weakening, the north and south hemispheres' magnetic fields have become decoupled
happened the last two cycles
this leads to two separate solar maxima
one in each hemisphere
known as the "double max"
creates very unstable conditions
likelihood of major flares
tend to occur in the declining phase of the cycle i.e. in a few years' time
but this eruption is unprecedented
signs in the heavens