The most common and most likely answer to this crossword clue is the 9 letter word FLARE-UPS
I've seen this crossword clue in Financial Times
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More clues leading to the result FLARE-UPS
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The cryptic/wordplay part
In cryptic crossword there's often an wordplay/cryptic part as well.This part involves a more complex hint, such as an anagram, homophone, hidden word, etc.
Sadly, We don't have an explanation for this specific crossword clue yet.
What does FLARE-UPS mean?
FLARE-UPS noun- A sudden outbreak, outburst or eruption (originally of flame, but now used more generally of any violent activity or emotion).
- A sudden intensification in activity.