A **Remarkable Total Lunar Eclipse** Approaches on March 13-14, 2025
The impending **total lunar eclipse** on **March 13-14, 2025**, is set to be a stunning astronomical phenomenon—weather permitting.
### An Uncommon “Blood Moon” Makes a Comeback
This **”blood moon”**—the first total lunar eclipse observable from Earth since 2022—will be visible across the **continental United States and the Americas**, unless obstructed by clouds. With only a few days remaining, meteorologists have a clear insight into which areas will enjoy optimal viewing conditions. This prediction can assist you in planning ahead or managing your expectations.
In contrast to a **total solar eclipse**, which occurs briefly within a narrow path, a **lunar eclipse** is a more extended spectacle that can be witnessed by countless individuals. During this eclipse, the phase of **totality**—when the **moon takes on a rich reddish tint**—will endure for **65 minutes**.
*”It’s a broader timeframe. The entire country gets to experience it, weather permitting,”* stated **Bob Larson**, a senior meteorologist at AccuWeather.
### Where Will the Skies Be Clear?
The encouraging news? A **significant segment of the U.S.** is predicted to enjoy favorable viewing conditions.
*”A considerable part of the country will remain free from inclement weather,”* Larson remarked.
However, a **storm system** is forecasted to settle over the **Rocky Mountains and Intermountain West** on **March 13-14**, potentially resulting in **limited visibility** in that area, as well as sections of the **Northern Plains and the West Coast**.
Conversely, **much of the South and Midwest**—including **Texas, Oklahoma, Kansas, Arkansas, and Missouri**—is anticipated to have **clear or partly clear skies**, providing excellent viewing chances.
### Essential Eclipse Timing
The **total eclipse**—when the moon is entirely engulfed in Earth’s shadow—will commence at:
– **11:26 p.m. PDT on March 13, 2025**
– **2:26 a.m. EDT on March 14, 2025**
– **06:26 UTC**
Totality will persist for **over an hour**, but the moon will start to dim **earlier in the evening** as it enters Earth’s shadow. The eclipse technically begins at:
– **8:57 p.m. PDT on March 13**
– **11:57 p.m. EDT on March 13**
– **03:57 UTC on March 14**
This implies you’ll have **ample time** to observe the moon’s change—if the weather permits.
### What Causes the Moon to Appear Red?
A **lunar eclipse** takes place when the **sun, Earth, and moon become aligned**, leading to Earth’s shadow being cast upon the moon and blocking most sunlight. However, Earth’s atmosphere **deflects blue light** while permitting **red wavelengths** to pass through, resulting in the moon’s distinctive **reddish, rusty, or crimson appearance**.
### Final Viewing Suggestions
While the forecast offers a **solid estimate**, it is not **100% certain**. Even if **some clouds** are visible, you might still catch a view of the **strange red moon** through **thin, high-altitude clouds**.
And keep in mind—**you have time**! With **65 minutes of totality**, cloud cover may shift, providing you a chance to see the eclipse.
If you’re planning to watch, **dress warmly** and prepare for a late-night or early-morning viewing experience.
*”Given the timing, it requires dedication,”* Larson noted.
But for a **rare astronomical event of this nature**, it is undeniably worthwhile! 🌕🔴