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
Hurricane Watch Issued For the Big Island of Hawaii

Hurricane Watch Issued For the Big Island of Hawaii

Tropical Storm Lala is heading toward Hawaii

13 Aug 2026 5:50 PM
Atlantic Tropics: Several Systems to Monitor

Atlantic Tropics: Several Systems to Monitor

Aside from the two tropical storms that forme

13 Aug 2026 12:05 PM
Multiple Days of Storms Keeps the Midwest to Northeast Active

Multiple Days of Storms Keeps the Midwest to Northeast Active

MIDWEST - Around lunchtime on Tuesday, intens

13 Aug 2026 11:30 AM
What to Know About the Total Solar Eclipse on August 12th

What to Know About the Total Solar Eclipse on August 12th

Get ready for one of the most spectacular dis

13 Aug 2026 10:00 AM
Stifling Heat Slides East This Week

Stifling Heat Slides East This Week

A large area of high pressure continues to br

13 Aug 2026 9:25 AM
Repeated Severe Threat for the High Plains

Repeated Severe Threat for the High Plains

HIGH PLAINS - Tuesday proved to be an incredi

13 Aug 2026 1:30 AM
One of the Best Meteor Showers of the Year Peaks Tonight

One of the Best Meteor Showers of the Year Peaks Tonight

After the solar eclipse happens Wednesday aft

12 Aug 2026 2:20 PM