Massive ‘Solar Storm’ Expected To Bring Northern Lights to Boise

What is a 'solar storm' and why does it sound so scary? We only know so much about outer space--but here we are, living on this rock that is flying through space at ridiculous speeds and hoping that it all works out. This storm is harmless, however, as all that will be happening is a magnetic solar wind slamming into the Earth’s magnetic field.  This will cause atoms in the upper atmosphere to glow.

One of the most beautiful things that we can do is silly, fickle human beings, especially in the summer time in Idaho, is to gaze up into the night sky and see all of the stars, planets, and unknowns, floating above. We're "out there" with them--and what is even more exciting is that in Idaho, we're lucky to have so many great wilderness areas that are away from light pollution for enhanced viewing experiences.

Something special will be happening over Idaho this week and according to experts, Boise might even be getting a glimpse, too.

Take a look at some of these photos from last time the Northern Lights were visible over our area! 

How neat would it be to have a photo of your house with those beautiful lights up above!? This week, it might just be possible. 

Experts are predicting Northern Lights appearing over Idaho either Thursday night, Friday night, or both nights. Of course in order to get the best view of them, they suggest that you get as far away from city "light pollution" as you can. For the Boise area, scientists from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s Space Weather Prediction Center say the lights will be "low on the horizon"-- as opposed to totally overhead.

Perhaps most important: be watching from 10:00 p.m. and 2:00 a.m. local time. 

Here in Boise, it gets dark LATE. So, adjust accordingly.