Leonid Meteor Shower Offers Viewing Opportunity in Seattle Amid Foggy Conditions
Seattle residents may catch a glimpse of the Leonid meteor shower Tuesday night, weather permitting, as the annual event peaks with up to 15 meteors per hour.
Seattle residents have a chance to observe the annual Leonid meteor shower on Tuesday night, weather conditions permitting. The Leonids, originating from Comet 55P/Tempel-Tuttle, are known for their high-speed meteors traveling at approximately 44 miles per second. This year, the shower is expected to produce up to 15 meteors per hour under ideal conditions.
The National Weather Service forecasts that rain showers will taper off during the day, potentially providing a dry window for nighttime viewing. However, fog is anticipated to develop, which may obscure visibility depending on local conditions.
For optimal viewing, experts recommend finding a dark location away from city lights and allowing eyes to adjust to the darkness for about 20 minutes. The meteors will appear to radiate from the constellation Leo, which rises in the eastern sky after midnight.
The Leonid meteor shower remains active until November 30, with peak activity occurring around November 16 and 17.