Whereas the magnetic field at most latitudes shields Earth, at the poles the field aims the electric charge right at the ground. 1991 space shuttle image of the Aurora Australis. Shows excitation of ionosphereic gases due to solar radiation. The effects are more pronounced during solar maxima. Every 11 years, sunspot activity increases, signifying greater than usual energy output, generating stronger effects on Earth.
Magnetic storms can disrupt or destroy some of Earth's technological infrastructure.
Next year may bring another magnetic storm, at least as bad as 1989, maybe worse. The sunspot count over predetermined periods is an established indicator of solar output. The 2000 sunspot count could reach 190. During peak times, Coronal Mass Ejections, huge breakoff blobs of plasma carrying part of the Sun's magnetic field, also become more common. CMEs leave the Sun in all directions, and some reach Earth.