Interesting. It's the first one I've seen about this cycle that had any scientist concern. I found another ( http://earthsky.org/space/suns-magnetic-field-poised-to-reverse-polarity-scientists-say ) that detailed some of the worry that there would be increased activity due to the speed the hemispheres are moving - one is faster than the other. It's been an active year, but there was some evidence that previous years were active too. That could add to concern from increasing them further or it could be normal. I try to remember, too, that our mapping technology and awareness of these things increases by leaps and bounds almost as often as cell phone technology changes.

There was another that mentioned the speeds, but didn't add any concern from it.
http://www.npr.org/blogs/thetwo-way/2013/08/08/210184749/nasa-sun-getting-ready-for-a-field-flip

It happens regularly and there's usually a little chatter. There was a major spaz attack in 2001-2003. Here are a couple with some historic flares, mapping images, and tracking updates, some with specific HAM and other satellite and radio aspects.
http://science1.nasa.gov/science-news/science-at-nasa/2001/ast15feb_1/
http://www.bibliotecapleyades.net/ciencia/ciencia_sol08.htm
http://www.space.com/12584-worst-solar-storms-sun-flares-history.html
http://www.solarham.net/
http://www.radio-electronics.com/info/propagation/ionospheric/solar-flares.php

Space is so cool. 🙂