The frequency of solar flares coincides with the Sun's eleven year cycle. Solar flares increase as the Sun approaches the maximum part of its cycle. The Sun will reach the peak of its cycle in the year 2000 or 2001. Flares can recur with the same geometry and time development within an active region. This is because the flare does not significantly alter the magnetic configuration of the active region so subsequent flares do not have a different form.
Solar flares can interrupt the communications network here on Earth.