Lunar Eclipse Watch: Weather Clouds the View for Some, Clears the Path for Others
Get ready for a celestial spectacle! A total lunar eclipse, often referred to as a "blood moon" due to its reddish-orange hue, is set to grace the night sky on Thursday night, offering a captivating astronomical event for observers across North and South America. However, as eager stargazers prepare to witness this stunning phenomenon, a significant weather system threatens to obscure the view for many, while others are poised for optimal eclipse viewing conditions.
Forecasters are closely monitoring a powerful March storm that is predicted to bring extensive cloud cover and even stormy weather to several regions, potentially hindering the visibility of the lunar eclipse. Despite these challenges, there’s good news: the total lunar eclipse will last for over an hour, providing ample opportunity to catch glimpses of the moon through breaks in the clouds.
AccuWeather meteorologist Brian Lada highlighted the advantage of a longer eclipse duration. "The good news is the total lunar eclipse will last for more than an hour, much longer than the total solar eclipse last April, which lasted less than five minutes along the path of totality," Lada explained. "You only need a few breaks in the clouds to witness the total lunar eclipse."
The total lunar eclipse will unfold as the Earth positions itself directly between the sun and the moon. This alignment casts the Earth’s shadow upon the moon, gradually darkening its surface. As the eclipse progresses, the moon transforms into a deep reddish-orange color, earning its evocative "blood moon" nickname. This dramatic transformation occurs because the Earth’s atmosphere filters and refracts sunlight, scattering away most colors except for red and orange, which are then projected onto the lunar surface.
The entire spectacle will be visible across North and South America. A few regions in Western Europe, Western Africa, and New Zealand will also have a chance to witness the eclipse, provided they experience clear skies.
However, not all locations will be fortunate enough to enjoy unobstructed views. AccuWeather meteorologist Tom Kines identified the areas most likely to face challenges. "The worst places to see the eclipse will likely be in the far West, the Rockies, and the north-central U.S., where cloud cover is forecast to be extensive," Kines told USA TODAY.
A massive storm originating from the Pacific Ocean is anticipated to sweep across the West Coast, Rocky Mountains, and northern Plains, bringing rain, mountain snow, and dense cloud cover. This widespread cloudiness will significantly impair the visibility of the total lunar eclipse in these regions. For instance, Salt Lake City is predicted to have a staggering 93% cloud cover during the eclipse, making it highly unlikely that residents will be able to witness the event. Similarly, those in the Rockies may have to brave not only clouds but also potential snowfall, further complicating their viewing experience.
The Northeast is also expected to experience a fair amount of cloudiness, potentially impacting eclipse viewing opportunities in that region.
Fortunately, not all areas are facing bleak prospects. The weather forecast suggests that the most favorable conditions for enjoying the total lunar eclipse will be from Texas to the Ohio Valley, as well as in southern Florida. These regions are predicted to have relatively clear skies, offering optimal visibility for stargazers. Miami, for example, is forecast to have a remarkably low 3% cloud cover during the eclipse.
In addition to these areas, clear skies are also expected in portions of the central Plains, specifically Oklahoma, Kansas, and Missouri. Residents in these states should have an excellent opportunity to witness the "blood moon" in all its glory.
For those fortunate enough to be in areas with clear skies, it is important to find a location away from city lights to fully appreciate the eclipse’s beauty. The darker the surroundings, the more vivid the reddish-orange hue of the moon will appear. No special equipment is required to view a lunar eclipse; it can be observed with the naked eye. However, binoculars or a telescope can enhance the viewing experience, allowing observers to see more details on the lunar surface.
For those in areas where cloud cover is expected, there are still ways to potentially catch a glimpse of the eclipse. Monitoring weather updates throughout the evening can help identify potential breaks in the clouds. If a window of clear sky appears, be ready to quickly find a viewing spot. Even a brief view of the eclipsed moon can be a memorable experience.
This total lunar eclipse is a special event, as it will be the first of two total lunar eclipses in 2025. However, this particular eclipse holds added significance for North American observers because it will be the only one visible from their continent. The subsequent total lunar eclipse on September 7-8, 2025, will be best viewed over Asia, Australia, and parts of Africa and Europe.
Adding to the anticipation, another total lunar eclipse will not be visible in the U.S. until March 2026, according to NASA. This extended wait makes the upcoming eclipse even more special for those in North America.
Regardless of the weather conditions in your area, the upcoming total lunar eclipse provides an opportunity to marvel at the wonders of the universe. Whether you are fortunate enough to witness the entire spectacle under clear skies or catch fleeting glimpses through breaks in the clouds, the "blood moon" is sure to be a memorable event.
So, keep an eye on the sky on Thursday night, and with a little luck, you’ll be able to witness this breathtaking celestial phenomenon. And remember, even if the weather doesn’t cooperate perfectly, the anticipation and the shared experience of watching the skies can be just as rewarding.
