🌱 Unusual Lights In The Night Sky + Towns, Cities Housing Deadline

Morning, everybody! I'm back with your fresh copy of the Manchester Daily. Here are all the most important things happening in Manchester today.

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• Did you see strange green or multi-colored bands of light in the night sky?
• Towns and cities across New Hampshire rush meet new housing deadline.
• New Hampshire Marine Police: "Be safe and aware" in rivers, ponds, and lakes after two drowned Saturday.

First, today's weather:

A few showers; cooler today. High: 79 Low: 65.

Here are the top 3 stories today in Manchester:

1. If you saw unusual green or colorful bands of light in the night sky on Thursday or Friday, it may have been the Northern Lights. Yes, in New Hampshire! According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, a strong geometric storm earlier in the week may have pushed the aurora borealis, usually seen closer to the North Pole in Alaska and Canada, further south and inland. The strong solar storm started Sunday and was expected to peak Thursday and Friday. (NPR)
2. Towns and cities across New Hampshire rushing against an Aug. 23 deadline to update zoning laws to boost the housing market. New Hampshire’s school boards are not only preparing for the school year, but local planning boards are "rushing to get up to speed" on updating their local housing ordinances. An online webinar by the New Hampshire Municipal Association and the state’s Office of Planning and Development on Aug. 10 was attended by 400 town officials— a record number. What's new? More relaxed zoning laws for workforce housing (that also applies to senior housing), tax incentives for “municipal economic development and revitalization districts,” and more changes to help solve the New Hampshire housing shortage. (Manchester Ink Link)
3. "Be safe and aware when enjoying the state's rivers, beaches and lakes," the State Police Marine Patrol Unit announced in a recent statement. Two men died Saturday in water-related incidents in New Hampshire. A 19-year-old Methuen, Mass. man swimming near Profile Falls in Bristol was pulled under the water, "and did not re-surface on his own. And a 71-year-old kayaker from Beverly, Mass. was found unresponsive in the water on Conner Pond in Ossipee. Officials said if you are going in the water to remember that conditions can change quickly, and to always wear a life jacket. (WMUR)

Today in Manchester:

• Simple STEAM Activity - Goffstown Public Library. (10 a.m.)

From my notebook:

More from our sponsors — thanks for supporting local news!

Events:

• 39th Gail Singer Memorial Blood Drive: August 24th AND 25th! (August 24)
• Add your event

Thanks for following along and staying informed! See you all tomorrow for your next update.

— Paula Constance

About me: Paula is a contributing writer, author, and award-winning media producer. She is committed to media projects that empower, engage, and help make the world a better place. When she's not writing, you can find her hiking or watching the fireflies in the sultry moments before sunset. You can follow her on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter.

Have a news tip or suggestion for an upcoming Manchester Daily? Contact me at manchester-nh@patch.com