Geminid Meteor Shower Peaks Early Friday

news image
Special Stories
13 Dec 2018 6:03 PM
Let your eyes adjust, grab the popcorn, and put on extra layers to take in the Geminid meteor shower overnight. Friday morning will be the best window to take in this annual tradition. You may need to set the alarm clock though, because 2 a.m. local time is the best window to take in the meteors, astronomers say. Astronomers describe the meteors within the Geminid shower to be "bold, white and quick." The cause of the meteor shower is a rock comet called '3200 Phaethon.' The so-called 3200 Phaethon crashes into the Earth's upper atmosphere at an estimated 80,000 miles per hour! It is then that the particles vaporize into colorful Geminid meteors. These meteors will be burning up about 60 miles above us. This phenomenon occurs when Earth passes through the tail of a comet. Those small particles of debris often lead to the brilliant 'shooting stars' across our night sky. You may be able to see between 50-120 meteors per hour at its peak! Tips for best viewing:
  • Get away from city lights and light pollution
  • Allow 20-30 minutes for your eyes to adjust to the darkness
  • Go with a buddy to stay safe!
  • Dress warmly in this cold season
If you capture any part of this amazing nature show, please share your video your picture with us on our Facebook or Twitter pages. For WeatherNation, Meteorologist Steve Glazier
All Weather News
More
Dangerously Cold Temps Spill Into the Lower 48 Late This Week

Dangerously Cold Temps Spill Into the Lower 48 Late This Week

During the winter months, many of us are no s

22 Jan 2026 12:20 AM
Rare Snow & Ice Threatens the South-Central and Eastern U.S. Fri-Sun

Rare Snow & Ice Threatens the South-Central and Eastern U.S. Fri-Sun

A rare winter storm is expected to impac

22 Jan 2026 12:15 AM
Rain and Snow Return to the Southwest

Rain and Snow Return to the Southwest

For much of this winter season, the Southwest

22 Jan 2026 12:10 AM
Blizzard Warnings Though This Evening and More Snow

Blizzard Warnings Though This Evening and More Snow

NORTHERN PLAINS - Blizzard warnings are in pl

21 Jan 2026 9:55 PM
Cold Stuns Iguanas as Another Cold Snap Reaches South Florida

Cold Stuns Iguanas as Another Cold Snap Reaches South Florida

Sub-freezing temperatures made their way into

20 Jan 2026 10:30 AM
Dangerous Cold follows Weekend Blizzard Conditions in the Northern Plains

Dangerous Cold follows Weekend Blizzard Conditions in the Northern Plains

MONDAY AM UPDATE: WEEKEND SNOW TOTALS: MERCER

19 Jan 2026 11:00 AM
Snow Totals from the Weekend Snow that Targeted I-95 From Virginia through New England

Snow Totals from the Weekend Snow that Targeted I-95 From Virginia through New England

MONDAY AM UPDATE: WInter Weather advisories a

19 Jan 2026 9:10 AM