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  • How some of Santa’s little reindeer relate to the weather

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    We all know that Santa travels the world on Christmas Eve on a sleigh pulled by eight… no, nine, reindeer! But are you aware of the weather tie-ins with Santa and his reindeer?

    What You Need To Know

    • Two reindeer are named after weather phenomena

    • Rudolph saved the day one Christmas Eve when fog covered most of the Earth

    • Santa uses forecasts from local meteorologists to plan his Christmas Eve flight

    (AP Photo/Jeff Chiu)

    We’ve all heard the tale of Rudolph, and we’ll cover that part of the story in a moment, but first, let’s start with two of Santa’s original reindeer.

    The original eight

    You know Dasher and Dancer, Prancer and Vixen, Comet and Cupid, and Donner and Blitzen, but did you know that two of the reindeer are named after weather phenomena?

    But which ones?

    If you guessed Donner and Blitzen, you are correct!

    Donner, also sometimes called Donder or Dunder, is named after thunder. The name comes from the Dutch word for thunder.

    Blitzen, also spelled Blixen and Blixem, is named after lightning. The name also comes from a Dutch word meaning lightning.

    Santa’s reindeer were never officially named until the 1823 release of the poem, “A Visit from St. Nicholas,” also known as “‘Twas the Night Before Christmas,” by Clement C. Moore.

    (AP Photo/Malin Moberg)

    Here’s an interesting reindeer fact.

    In the story “The Life and Adventures of Santa Claus” by L. Frank Baum, the author listed ten reindeer. Flossie and Glossie are Santa’s lead reindeer, while Racer and Pacer, Fearless and Peerless, Ready and Steady, and Feckless and Speckless are the rest of the team. 

    None of these names are weather-related terms.

    No offense to L. Frank Baum, but I’m glad we stuck with Clement C. Moore’s names for Santa’s reindeer.

    Rudolph leads the way

    I think we all know the story of Rudolph.

    This iconic reindeer showed up in 1939. Looked upon as a misfit (aren’t we all in some way), the other reindeer rejected Rudolph and made fun of him because of his red, glowing nose. Though that “little” abnormality came in handy “one foggy Christmas Eve.”

    In an unprecedented weather event, one never seen before or seen since, an “outbreak” of fog blanketed most of the planet, and it became impossible for Santa to make his flight on Christmas Eve around the world. 

    All was lost until Santa realized that Rudolph and his incredible nose could lead the way.

    This was Rudolph’s time to shine. (Pun intended.)

    (File Photo)

    And the rest is history. From that time on, Rudolph has been Santa’s lead reindeer.

    Santa’s Christmas Eve forecast

    Something you may not know is Santa Claus has a weather forecasting team at the North Pole.

    Some elves specialize in forecasting the weather around the world. These meteorologists give Santa an overview of the weather around the globe on Christmas Eve, but Santa depends on local National Weather Service and TV meteorologists to provide him forecasts for cities along his flight path.

    My daughter found out about this during a visit with Santa when she was about six years old.

    I had taken her and her younger brother to see Santa a few days before Christmas. As we were next in line, Santa saw us, stood up, walked over to me and asked, “Gary, what kind of weather am I looking at on Christmas Eve?”

    I gave him a quick forecast, he thanked me, walked back over to his chair and sat down as the next child climbed on his lap.

    The expression on my daughter’s face was priceless.

    “Santa knows you?” she asked as she looked up at me with a look of shock, confusion and pride. “Well, of course he does. Who do you think he gets his forecast from for this area? I’m a pilot, and he’s a pilot. I’m the perfect person to give him a ‘flight weather briefing.’”

    Talk about a priceless memory that I will always remember.

    (Gary Stephenson)

    In the Christmas Eve sky

    So on Christmas Eve night, if your skies are clear, look to the sky. You might see a red light moving across the sky. More than likely, it’s the beacon on an airplane, but it might, just might, be the glow of Rudolph’s red nose.

    And if the weather is not so clear, rest well knowing that Santa’s got a well-trained team of reindeer pulling the sleigh and an accurate forecast so he can safely complete his Christmas Eve journey around the Earth.

    I’ll finish my story with these final words.

    My wish for all of you is to have a safe and Merry Christmas. And to Santa and the reindeer, have a good flight!

    Our team of meteorologists dives deep into the science of weather and breaks down timely weather data and information. To view more weather and climate stories, check out our weather blogs section.

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    Chief Meteorologist Gary Stephenson

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  • 2025: Weather in Review

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    As we close out 2025, here’s a look back at the wild weather experienced this year. From snow to wildfires to tornadoes to flooding, 2025 will be one for the record books.

    What You Need To Know

    • Record snow fell in southern states, including Louisiana, Florida, Alabama and Mississippi, in January

    • A tornado outbreak in May saw an EF3 in St. Louis and an EF4 in south-central Kentucky

    • For the first time in a decade, no hurricane made landfall in the United States



    It didn’t take long into the New Year for Mother Nature to become active.

    First big storm of the season Jan 3. to Jan 6

    On Jan. 3, a storm system moved onshore along the West Coast, producing snow in the mountains of Washington and Montana. The southern side of the storm produced severe weather, including the first tornado of the year in Northern California.

    As it moved east across the Great Plains and Midwest on Jan. 4 and 5, it intensified and pulled in moisture from the Gulf. Parts of Kansas, including the Kansas City metro, saw upwards of 12 to 18 inches of snow, nearly a season’s worth in one storm.

    The St. Louis metro accumulated 8 to over 12 inches, with Weldon Spring, Mo. being the big winner. The snow was so intense at one point, thunder snow was reported.


    Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky International Airport received 8 inches of snow, a new daily record, leading to canceled flights. At the height of the storm, the pressure dropped to 976 millibars, equivalent to a Category 2 hurricane.

    The southern side of the system on Jan. 5 produced severe weather in the Lower Mississippi River Valley, with 17 tornado reports and dozens of wind reports.

    The storm pushed east and was along the East Coast by Jan. 6. From Virginia to Pennsylvania and New Jersey, snow accumulated. Richmond, Va. experienced blizzard conditions leading to water outages, which took at least three days to fully restore.

    Southern snow Jan. 21 to 22

    Snow in the south happens, but it’s usually a few flakes, not half a foot or more. A large southern storm system brought big snows to states like Alabama, Louisiana, Mississippi and Florida in late January. Pensacola, Florida, shattered its two-day snowfall record, accumulating 8.9 inches of snow.

    New Orleans was transformed into a winter wonderland, with snowball fights captured on Bourbon Street. For the first time it their history, the National Weather Service in Lake Charles, La., issued blizzard warnings.

    People walk around on Bourbon Street as snow falls in the French Quarter in New Orleans, Tuesday, Jan. 21, 2025. (AP Photo/Gerald Herbert)

    Snow wasn’t the only big weather event in January.

    Los Angeles wildfires

    The Santa Ana winds led to dangerous fires across California. 14 fires burned throughout the entire month, with the Pacific Palisades and the Eaton fires as the two largest. Tens of thousands of structures were damaged or destroyed, and fatalities are estimated in the hundreds.

    A car travels down East Mendocino Street as a wildfire burns in the hills near Eaton Canyon, Tuesday, Jan. 7, 2025, in Altadena, Calif. (AP Photo/Chris Pizzello)

    May 15 to 16 tornado outbreak

    Spring saw bouts of severe weather, with several storms producing destructive tornadoes. 

    In May, a deadly tornado outbreak hit the Midwest and Ohio River Valley, with more than 60 tornadoes reported. An EF3 tornado, with estimated winds of 150 mph, touched down in the Greater St. Louis area on May 16, bringing destruction across the northern part of the city and killing four people.

    Damage in the St. Louis metro after an EF3 tornado touched down on May 16, 2025. (Pic: NWS St. Louis)

    The same storm system produced a large EF4-rated tornado, with winds estimated at 170 mph, across south-central Kentucky. This long-tracked tornado caused 19 fatalities and billions of dollars in damage.

    Texas Hill Country flooding

    Turning to summer—During the early morning hours of July 4, the remnants of Tropical Storm Barry combined with Pacific moisture, producing heavy thunderstorms across the Texas Hill Country. Rainfall totals ranged from 8 to over 20 inches in just a few hours, leading to the dramatic rise of the Guadalupe River.

    Camp Mystic stands next a creek that feeds into the Guadalupe River, Monday, July 7, 2025, in Hunt, Texas, after flash flooding swept through the area. (AP Photo/Eli Hartman)

    One of the worst-hit areas was in Kerrville, Texas, where Camp Mystic, a girl’s summer camp along the river, flooded. The water rose so quickly that the camp did not have time to evacuate. Twenty-five campers and two teenage counselors perished during the devastating floods.

    Tampa hits 100 degrees

    2025 saw its fair share of weather records shattered. On July 28, the Tampa International Airport recorded the first triple-digit temperature since records began in 1890. The area hit 100 degrees!

    Hurricane season 

    Speaking of numbers… This was the first time in a decade that no hurricane had made landfall in the United States. However, in late August, Hurricane Erin brought dangerous surf and rip currents to the East Coast.

    Numerous houses along North Carolina’s Outer Banks fell into the sea because of coastal flooding and erosion.

    Five homes collapsed Tuesday in Buxton along North Carolina’s Outer Banks. (Spectrum News 1/Lauren Howard)

    Although no hurricane made landfall in the U.S., Hurricane Melissa made history as the third-most intense Atlantic hurricane and made landfall in Jamaica as a Category 5 storm with winds of 185 mph. The storm killed over 100 people and caused at least $10 billion in damage. 

    Our team of meteorologists dives deep into the science of weather and breaks down timely weather data and information. To view more weather and climate stories, check out our weather blogs section.

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    Meteorologist Stacy Lynn

    Source link

  • 2025: Weather in Review

    [ad_1]

    As we close out 2025, here’s a look back at the wild weather experienced this year. From snow to wildfires to tornadoes to flooding, 2025 will be one for the record books.

    What You Need To Know

    • Record snow fell in southern states, including Louisiana, Florida, Alabama and Mississippi, in January

    • A tornado outbreak in May saw an EF3 in St. Louis and an EF4 in south-central Kentucky

    • For the first time in a decade, no hurricane made landfall in the United States



    It didn’t take long into the New Year for Mother Nature to become active.

    First big storm of the season Jan 3. to Jan 6

    On Jan. 3, a storm system moved onshore along the West Coast, producing snow in the mountains of Washington and Montana. The southern side of the storm produced severe weather, including the first tornado of the year in Northern California.

    As it moved east across the Great Plains and Midwest on Jan. 4 and 5, it intensified and pulled in moisture from the Gulf. Parts of Kansas, including the Kansas City metro, saw upwards of 12 to 18 inches of snow, nearly a season’s worth in one storm.

    The St. Louis metro accumulated 8 to over 12 inches, with Weldon Spring, Mo. being the big winner. The snow was so intense at one point, thunder snow was reported.


    Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky International Airport received 8 inches of snow, a new daily record, leading to canceled flights. At the height of the storm, the pressure dropped to 976 millibars, equivalent to a Category 2 hurricane.

    The southern side of the system on Jan. 5 produced severe weather in the Lower Mississippi River Valley, with 17 tornado reports and dozens of wind reports.

    The storm pushed east and was along the East Coast by Jan. 6. From Virginia to Pennsylvania and New Jersey, snow accumulated. Richmond, Va. experienced blizzard conditions leading to water outages, which took at least three days to fully restore.

    Southern snow Jan. 21 to 22

    Snow in the south happens, but it’s usually a few flakes, not half a foot or more. A large southern storm system brought big snows to states like Alabama, Louisiana, Mississippi and Florida in late January. Pensacola, Florida, shattered its two-day snowfall record, accumulating 8.9 inches of snow.

    New Orleans was transformed into a winter wonderland, with snowball fights captured on Bourbon Street. For the first time it their history, the National Weather Service in Lake Charles, La., issued blizzard warnings.

    People walk around on Bourbon Street as snow falls in the French Quarter in New Orleans, Tuesday, Jan. 21, 2025. (AP Photo/Gerald Herbert)

    Snow wasn’t the only big weather event in January.

    Los Angeles wildfires

    The Santa Ana winds led to dangerous fires across California. 14 fires burned throughout the entire month, with the Pacific Palisades and the Eaton fires as the two largest. Tens of thousands of structures were damaged or destroyed, and fatalities are estimated in the hundreds.

    A car travels down East Mendocino Street as a wildfire burns in the hills near Eaton Canyon, Tuesday, Jan. 7, 2025, in Altadena, Calif. (AP Photo/Chris Pizzello)

    May 15 to 16 tornado outbreak

    Spring saw bouts of severe weather, with several storms producing destructive tornadoes. 

    In May, a deadly tornado outbreak hit the Midwest and Ohio River Valley, with more than 60 tornadoes reported. An EF3 tornado, with estimated winds of 150 mph, touched down in the Greater St. Louis area on May 16, bringing destruction across the northern part of the city and killing four people.

    Damage in the St. Louis metro after an EF3 tornado touched down on May 16, 2025. (Pic: NWS St. Louis)

    The same storm system produced a large EF4-rated tornado, with winds estimated at 170 mph, across south-central Kentucky. This long-tracked tornado caused 19 fatalities and billions of dollars in damage.

    Texas Hill Country flooding

    Turning to summer—During the early morning hours of July 4, the remnants of Tropical Storm Barry combined with Pacific moisture, producing heavy thunderstorms across the Texas Hill Country. Rainfall totals ranged from 8 to over 20 inches in just a few hours, leading to the dramatic rise of the Guadalupe River.

    Camp Mystic stands next a creek that feeds into the Guadalupe River, Monday, July 7, 2025, in Hunt, Texas, after flash flooding swept through the area. (AP Photo/Eli Hartman)

    One of the worst-hit areas was in Kerrville, Texas, where Camp Mystic, a girl’s summer camp along the river, flooded. The water rose so quickly that the camp did not have time to evacuate. Twenty-five campers and two teenage counselors perished during the devastating floods.

    Tampa hits 100 degrees

    2025 saw its fair share of weather records shattered. On July 28, the Tampa International Airport recorded the first triple-digit temperature since records began in 1890. The area hit 100 degrees!

    Hurricane season 

    Speaking of numbers… This was the first time in a decade that no hurricane had made landfall in the United States. However, in late August, Hurricane Erin brought dangerous surf and rip currents to the East Coast.

    Numerous houses along North Carolina’s Outer Banks fell into the sea because of coastal flooding and erosion.

    Five homes collapsed Tuesday in Buxton along North Carolina’s Outer Banks. (Spectrum News 1/Lauren Howard)

    Although no hurricane made landfall in the U.S., Hurricane Melissa made history as the third-most intense Atlantic hurricane and made landfall in Jamaica as a Category 5 storm with winds of 185 mph. The storm killed over 100 people and caused at least $10 billion in damage. 

    Our team of meteorologists dives deep into the science of weather and breaks down timely weather data and information. To view more weather and climate stories, check out our weather blogs section.

    [ad_2]

    Meteorologist Stacy Lynn

    Source link

  • 2025: Weather in Review

    [ad_1]

    As we close out 2025, here’s a look back at the wild weather experienced this year. From snow to wildfires to tornadoes to flooding, 2025 will be one for the record books.

    What You Need To Know

    • Record snow fell in southern states, including Louisiana, Florida, Alabama and Mississippi, in January

    • A tornado outbreak in May saw an EF3 in St. Louis and an EF4 in south-central Kentucky

    • For the first time in a decade, no hurricane made landfall in the United States



    It didn’t take long into the New Year for Mother Nature to become active.

    First big storm of the season Jan 3. to Jan 6

    On Jan. 3, a storm system moved onshore along the West Coast, producing snow in the mountains of Washington and Montana. The southern side of the storm produced severe weather, including the first tornado of the year in Northern California.

    As it moved east across the Great Plains and Midwest on Jan. 4 and 5, it intensified and pulled in moisture from the Gulf. Parts of Kansas, including the Kansas City metro, saw upwards of 12 to 18 inches of snow, nearly a season’s worth in one storm.

    The St. Louis metro accumulated 8 to over 12 inches, with Weldon Spring, Mo. being the big winner. The snow was so intense at one point, thunder snow was reported.


    Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky International Airport received 8 inches of snow, a new daily record, leading to canceled flights. At the height of the storm, the pressure dropped to 976 millibars, equivalent to a Category 2 hurricane.

    The southern side of the system on Jan. 5 produced severe weather in the Lower Mississippi River Valley, with 17 tornado reports and dozens of wind reports.

    The storm pushed east and was along the East Coast by Jan. 6. From Virginia to Pennsylvania and New Jersey, snow accumulated. Richmond, Va. experienced blizzard conditions leading to water outages, which took at least three days to fully restore.

    Southern snow Jan. 21 to 22

    Snow in the south happens, but it’s usually a few flakes, not half a foot or more. A large southern storm system brought big snows to states like Alabama, Louisiana, Mississippi and Florida in late January. Pensacola, Florida, shattered its two-day snowfall record, accumulating 8.9 inches of snow.

    New Orleans was transformed into a winter wonderland, with snowball fights captured on Bourbon Street. For the first time it their history, the National Weather Service in Lake Charles, La., issued blizzard warnings.

    People walk around on Bourbon Street as snow falls in the French Quarter in New Orleans, Tuesday, Jan. 21, 2025. (AP Photo/Gerald Herbert)

    Snow wasn’t the only big weather event in January.

    Los Angeles wildfires

    The Santa Ana winds led to dangerous fires across California. 14 fires burned throughout the entire month, with the Pacific Palisades and the Eaton fires as the two largest. Tens of thousands of structures were damaged or destroyed, and fatalities are estimated in the hundreds.

    A car travels down East Mendocino Street as a wildfire burns in the hills near Eaton Canyon, Tuesday, Jan. 7, 2025, in Altadena, Calif. (AP Photo/Chris Pizzello)

    May 15 to 16 tornado outbreak

    Spring saw bouts of severe weather, with several storms producing destructive tornadoes. 

    In May, a deadly tornado outbreak hit the Midwest and Ohio River Valley, with more than 60 tornadoes reported. An EF3 tornado, with estimated winds of 150 mph, touched down in the Greater St. Louis area on May 16, bringing destruction across the northern part of the city and killing four people.

    Damage in the St. Louis metro after an EF3 tornado touched down on May 16, 2025. (Pic: NWS St. Louis)

    The same storm system produced a large EF4-rated tornado, with winds estimated at 170 mph, across south-central Kentucky. This long-tracked tornado caused 19 fatalities and billions of dollars in damage.

    Texas Hill Country flooding

    Turning to summer—During the early morning hours of July 4, the remnants of Tropical Storm Barry combined with Pacific moisture, producing heavy thunderstorms across the Texas Hill Country. Rainfall totals ranged from 8 to over 20 inches in just a few hours, leading to the dramatic rise of the Guadalupe River.

    Camp Mystic stands next a creek that feeds into the Guadalupe River, Monday, July 7, 2025, in Hunt, Texas, after flash flooding swept through the area. (AP Photo/Eli Hartman)

    One of the worst-hit areas was in Kerrville, Texas, where Camp Mystic, a girl’s summer camp along the river, flooded. The water rose so quickly that the camp did not have time to evacuate. Twenty-five campers and two teenage counselors perished during the devastating floods.

    Tampa hits 100 degrees

    2025 saw its fair share of weather records shattered. On July 28, the Tampa International Airport recorded the first triple-digit temperature since records began in 1890. The area hit 100 degrees!

    Hurricane season 

    Speaking of numbers… This was the first time in a decade that no hurricane had made landfall in the United States. However, in late August, Hurricane Erin brought dangerous surf and rip currents to the East Coast.

    Numerous houses along North Carolina’s Outer Banks fell into the sea because of coastal flooding and erosion.

    Five homes collapsed Tuesday in Buxton along North Carolina’s Outer Banks. (Spectrum News 1/Lauren Howard)

    Although no hurricane made landfall in the U.S., Hurricane Melissa made history as the third-most intense Atlantic hurricane and made landfall in Jamaica as a Category 5 storm with winds of 185 mph. The storm killed over 100 people and caused at least $10 billion in damage. 

    Our team of meteorologists dives deep into the science of weather and breaks down timely weather data and information. To view more weather and climate stories, check out our weather blogs section.

    [ad_2]

    Meteorologist Stacy Lynn

    Source link

  • Pacific moisture delivers heavy rain for holiday travelers this week

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    Whether you’re flying or driving, the weather could impact your holiday travel next week. Here’s what to expect across the country.

    What You Need To Know

    • Heavy rain is expected in California and the Pacific Northwest

    • A clipper system brings heavy snow across the Northeast and New England before Christmas

    • Temperatures are trending significantly above normal for Christmas


    Here are the weather highlights for holiday travelers. 


    A more detailed forecast for each day can be found below.

    Monday

    A prolonged period of wet weather is on tap this week across Northern California and the intermountain west. Monday evening into Tuesday morning could see some showers across the Ohio Valley and snow in the Great Lakes. Southern California remains mostly dry today, but wetter trends ramp up tomorrow.


    Tuesday

    Snow is possible across New England and the Northeast on Tuesday, with parts of Maine seeing up to 6 to 8 inches. Totals remain on the low end with only a couple inches of accumulation everywhere else. Out west, rain and snow continues, with heavy rain spilling into southern California.

    Christmas Eve

    California will see wet weather on Christmas Eve as another atmospheric river brings in Pacific moisture, leading to periods of heavy rain and mountain snow. Some strong storms are also possible across Southern California. The possibility of showers will be present through the Ohio Valley.


    Christmas

    The Rockies and areas westward see wet and wintry weather on Christmas Day, with the higher elevations seeing a white Christmas. Much of the central and eastern U.S. will be warmer than normal with mostly dry conditions.


    Friday

    The day after Christmas could finally offer a break for some areas out west, but high elevation snow chances continue. Some rain is possible across the Northeast.


    Our team of meteorologists dives deep into the science of weather and breaks down timely weather data and information. To view more weather and climate stories, check out our weather blogs section.

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    Spectrum News Weather Staff

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  • Pacific moisture delivers heavy rain for holiday travelers next week

    [ad_1]

    Whether you’re flying or driving, the weather could impact your holiday travel next week. Here’s what to expect across the country.

    What You Need To Know

    • Mostly dry weather is on tap across the central and eastern U.S. this weekend

    • Heavy rain is expected in California and the Pacific Northwest

    • Temperatures are trending significantly above normal for Christmas


    Here are the weather highlights for holiday travelers. 


    A more detailed forecast for each day can be found below.

    Saturday

    If you’re traveling Saturday, a weak disturbance will bring some light snow across the Great Lakes and interior Northeast during the afternoon and evening. Heavier snow accumulation should remain into Canada.  Most of the Midwest is looking at dry, sunny weather. 

    Northern California and the intermountain west will continue seeing periods of wet weather.


    Sunday

    Wet weather continues out west on Sunday, especially for parts of Northern Calfornia, Oregon, Washington and Idaho. Heavy snow and rain is expected.

    Some snow showers are possible around the Great Lakes and rain across the Southeast, but activity remains light.

    Monday

    A prolonged period of wet weather is on tap into early next week across Northern California and the intermountain west. Monday evening into Tuesday morning could see some showers across the Ohio Valley and snow in the Great Lakes.


    Tuesday

    Snow is possible across New England and the Northeast on Tuesday, but totals remain on the low end with only a couple inches of accumulation. Out west, rain and snow continues.

    Christmas Eve

    California will see wet weather on Christmas Eve as another atmospheric river brings in Pacific moisture, leading to periods of heavy rain and mountain snow. The possibility of showers will be present through the Ohio Valley.


    Christmas

    The Rockies and areas westward see wet and wintry weather on Christmas Day, with the higher elevations seeing a white Christmas. Much of the central and eastern U.S. will be warmer than normal with mostly dry conditions.


    Friday

    The day after Christmas could finally offer a break for some areas out west, but high elevation snow chances continue. Some rain is possible across the Northeast.


    Our team of meteorologists dives deep into the science of weather and breaks down timely weather data and information. To view more weather and climate stories, check out our weather blogs section.

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    Spectrum News Weather Staff

    Source link

  • Here’s the top 25 Christmas movies, according to Rotten Tomatoes

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    Maybe you watch your comfort holiday film every year and are looking for something different this time.

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    Spectrum News Staff

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  • The Ursid meteor shower arrives, the last of 2025

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    The last meteor shower of 2025, the Ursid meteor shower, arrives each year around the winter solstice. While it isn’t as impressive as the recent Geminid shower, it’s still worth seeing.

    What You Need To Know

    • The Ursid meteor shower peaks in the pre-dawn hours of Dec. 22

    • The average number of meteors per hour is 5-10. On rare occasions, there have been bursts near 100

    • The Ursid meteor shower originates from the debris trail of Comet 8P/Tuttle

    What causes most meteor showers?

    Meteor showers occur when the Earth passes through debris left over from a comet or asteroid. This debris material is usually no bigger than a large grain of sand. When these particles enter the Earth’s atmosphere, they burn up, leaving bright, sometimes colorful streaks of light in the night sky.

    In the case of the Ursids, the debris trail is left over from Comet 8P/Tuttle. This comet was first discovered in 1790 by Pierre Mechain from Paris, France. Later, in 1858, Horace Tuttle of Harvard University rediscovered the comet when its orbit took it back through the solar system.

    When and where to meet watch

    The Ursids range from Dec. 13 to 24. The peak arrives on the evening of December 21st through dawn. Make sure you dress warmly and find a dark location, away from lights. A country area is ideal. Allow your eyes to adjust to the night sky, which takes up to 30 minutes. The best time to watch the sky is from around 1 a.m. EST until dawn.

    All annual meteor showers have a radiant point from which they originate. With the Ursids, they radiate from the area of the constellations Ursa Major and Ursa Minor. (Big Dipper & Little Dipper). More specifically, from the star Kochab in the Little Dipper constellation. Look for the Big Dipper and the star Kochab well to the north-northeast.

    Keep in mind, you don’t need to look directly at the radiant point (near the star Kochab in the Little Dipper); looking about 30 to 40 degrees away often yields longer, more impressive meteor trails across the sky.

    Here is the cloud forecast across the nation during the peak viewing time:

    Our team of meteorologists dives deep into the science of weather and breaks down timely weather data and information. To view more weather and climate stories, check out our weather blogs section.

    [ad_2]

    Meteorologist Scott Dean

    Source link

  • The Ursid meteor shower arrives, the last of 2025

    [ad_1]

    The last meteor shower of 2025, the Ursid meteor shower, arrives each year around the winter solstice. While it isn’t as impressive as the recent Geminid shower, it’s still worth seeing.

    What You Need To Know

    • The Ursid meteor shower peaks in the pre-dawn hours of Dec. 22

    • The average number of meteors per hour is 5-10. On rare occasions, there have been bursts near 100

    • The Ursid meteor shower originates from the debris trail of Comet 8P/Tuttle

    What causes most meteor showers?

    Meteor showers occur when the Earth passes through debris left over from a comet or asteroid. This debris material is usually no bigger than a large grain of sand. When these particles enter the Earth’s atmosphere, they burn up, leaving bright, sometimes colorful streaks of light in the night sky.

    In the case of the Ursids, the debris trail is left over from Comet 8P/Tuttle. This comet was first discovered in 1790 by Pierre Mechain from Paris, France. Later, in 1858, Horace Tuttle of Harvard University rediscovered the comet when its orbit took it back through the solar system.

    When and where to meet watch

    The Ursids range from Dec. 13 to 24. The peak arrives on the evening of December 21st through dawn. Make sure you dress warmly and find a dark location, away from lights. A country area is ideal. Allow your eyes to adjust to the night sky, which takes up to 30 minutes. The best time to watch the sky is from around 1 a.m. EST until dawn.

    All annual meteor showers have a radiant point from which they originate. With the Ursids, they radiate from the area of the constellations Ursa Major and Ursa Minor. (Big Dipper & Little Dipper). More specifically, from the star Kochab in the Little Dipper constellation. Look for the Big Dipper and the star Kochab well to the north-northeast.

    Keep in mind, you don’t need to look directly at the radiant point (near the star Kochab in the Little Dipper); looking about 30 to 40 degrees away often yields longer, more impressive meteor trails across the sky.

    Here is the cloud forecast across the nation during the peak viewing time:

    Our team of meteorologists dives deep into the science of weather and breaks down timely weather data and information. To view more weather and climate stories, check out our weather blogs section.

    [ad_2]

    Meteorologist Scott Dean

    Source link

  • Jury reaches verdict in trial of Judge Hannah Dugan

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    A jury on Thursday found Milwaukee County Judge Hannah Dugan guilty of a federal felony charge that she obstructed or impeded a proceeding before a U.S. department or agency, while acquitting her on a misdemeanor count tied to concealing an individual from discovery and arrest. Her defense team released this statement shortly after the verdict was read: “While we are disappointed in today’s outcome, the failure of the prosecution to secure convictions on both counts demonstrates the opportunity we have to clear Judge Dugan’s name and show she did nothing wrong in this matter. We have planned for this potential outcome and our defense of Judge Dugan is just beginning. This trial required considerable resources to prepare for and public support for Judge Dugan’s defense fund is critical as we prepare for the next phase of this defense.” The judge did not set a sentencing date. The defense plans to fight the conviction. The maximum penalty would be five years imprisonment and a $250,000 fine.Watch: Defense attorney Steve Biskupic’s post-verdict reaction:On the prosecution side, interim U.S. Attorney Brad Schimel asked that people keep politics out of the case and the verdict. He said this was not the government trying to make an example of Dugan, but was instead a serious matter they felt necessary to pursue.Watch: Interim U.S. Attorney Brad Schimel delivers remarks after Dugan verdictProsecutors filed the charges after an April 2025 courthouse encounter involving federal agents and a defendant, in Dugan’s court on a state criminal charge, a man they were seeking to arrest. The verdict followed a week of testimony and evidence centered on what jurors heard and saw from April 18, when federal agents came to the sixth floor of the Milwaukee County Courthouse with a warrant to arrest Eduardo Flores-Ruiz.In opening statements Monday, prosecutors told jurors that Dugan “knew what she did was wrong” and argued arrests in the courthouse are “standard and routine.”The defense challenged the interpretation of events and questioned witnesses about courthouse practices, confusion over the courthouse policy for interactions with federal immigration officials. What prosecutors allegedJurors were shown surveillance video and listened to audio from inside Dugan’s courtroom, with prosecutors walking through the sequence in detail.Prosecutors pointed jurors to:Hallway surveillance video showing Dugan confronting federal agents outside her courtroom; there was no audio on the hallway video.Audio from inside the courtroom, played alongside a transcript for jurors to follow, including a moment in which Dugan’s clerk is heard saying, “We have 5 ICE guys in the hallway.”Prosecutors’ interpretation of courtroom audio, including that Dugan called Flores-Ruiz’s case out of order and told his attorney to take him out and return for a rescheduled date, which prosecutors argued was intended to get him out of the area.Evidence and testimony jurors heardThe government’s first witness included FBI Special Agent Jeffrey Baker, who testified about his actions at the courthouse that morning and what he observed. Baker described Dugan’s tone during the hallway encounter, saying, “anger would be the best way to describe it.”Jurors also heard testimony and saw exhibits related to communications among judges about how to handle interactions with federal immigration officials in the courthouse, according to the notes.WATCH FBI agents testify about courthouse confusion during immigration arrestDefense caseAfter the prosecution rested on Wednesday, the defense began calling witnesses Thursday morning. The first defense witness was Milwaukee County Judge Katie Kegel, and jurors were shown an email she sent to fellow judges that was displayed in court and included in jurors’ binders. The final witness for the defense was former Milwaukee Mayor Tom Barrett, a lifelong friend who described her as an “extremely honest” person who will tell you exactly how she feels. Background of the caseThe case stems from the April 18 courthouse encounter in which agents from ICE and other federal agencies arrived outside Dugan’s courtroom with a warrant for Flores-Ruiz’s arrest.Prosecutors alleged Dugan directed agents away from the arrest location and that Flores-Ruiz later left through a restricted area before being arrested outside.Flores-Ruiz’s underlying state case involved a domestic violence allegation. In opening statements, prosecutors referenced the charge he faced that day: battery — domestic abuse — infliction of physical pain or injury. Flores-Ruiz has since been deported.

    A jury on Thursday found Milwaukee County Judge Hannah Dugan guilty of a federal felony charge that she obstructed or impeded a proceeding before a U.S. department or agency, while acquitting her on a misdemeanor count tied to concealing an individual from discovery and arrest.

    Her defense team released this statement shortly after the verdict was read:

    “While we are disappointed in today’s outcome, the failure of the prosecution to secure convictions on both counts demonstrates the opportunity we have to clear Judge Dugan’s name and show she did nothing wrong in this matter. We have planned for this potential outcome and our defense of Judge Dugan is just beginning. This trial required considerable resources to prepare for and public support for Judge Dugan’s defense fund is critical as we prepare for the next phase of this defense.”

    Adela Tesnow

    Milwaukee County Judge Hannah Dugan reacts after hearing a guilty guilty in her federal trial

    The judge did not set a sentencing date. The defense plans to fight the conviction. The maximum penalty would be five years imprisonment and a $250,000 fine.

    Watch: Defense attorney Steve Biskupic’s post-verdict reaction:

    On the prosecution side, interim U.S. Attorney Brad Schimel asked that people keep politics out of the case and the verdict. He said this was not the government trying to make an example of Dugan, but was instead a serious matter they felt necessary to pursue.

    Watch: Interim U.S. Attorney Brad Schimel delivers remarks after Dugan verdict

    Prosecutors filed the charges after an April 2025 courthouse encounter involving federal agents and a defendant, in Dugan’s court on a state criminal charge, a man they were seeking to arrest.

    The verdict followed a week of testimony and evidence centered on what jurors heard and saw from April 18, when federal agents came to the sixth floor of the Milwaukee County Courthouse with a warrant to arrest Eduardo Flores-Ruiz.

    In opening statements Monday, prosecutors told jurors that Dugan “knew what she did was wrong” and argued arrests in the courthouse are “standard and routine.”

    The defense challenged the interpretation of events and questioned witnesses about courthouse practices, confusion over the courthouse policy for interactions with federal immigration officials.

    What prosecutors alleged

    Jurors were shown surveillance video and listened to audio from inside Dugan’s courtroom, with prosecutors walking through the sequence in detail.

    Prosecutors pointed jurors to:

    • Hallway surveillance video showing Dugan confronting federal agents outside her courtroom; there was no audio on the hallway video.
    • Audio from inside the courtroom, played alongside a transcript for jurors to follow, including a moment in which Dugan’s clerk is heard saying, “We have 5 ICE guys in the hallway.”
    • Prosecutors’ interpretation of courtroom audio, including that Dugan called Flores-Ruiz’s case out of order and told his attorney to take him out and return for a rescheduled date, which prosecutors argued was intended to get him out of the area.

    Evidence and testimony jurors heard

    The government’s first witness included FBI Special Agent Jeffrey Baker, who testified about his actions at the courthouse that morning and what he observed.

    Baker described Dugan’s tone during the hallway encounter, saying, “anger would be the best way to describe it.”

    Jurors also heard testimony and saw exhibits related to communications among judges about how to handle interactions with federal immigration officials in the courthouse, according to the notes.

    WATCH FBI agents testify about courthouse confusion during immigration arrest

    Defense case

    After the prosecution rested on Wednesday, the defense began calling witnesses Thursday morning.

    The first defense witness was Milwaukee County Judge Katie Kegel, and jurors were shown an email she sent to fellow judges that was displayed in court and included in jurors’ binders.

    The final witness for the defense was former Milwaukee Mayor Tom Barrett, a lifelong friend who described her as an “extremely honest” person who will tell you exactly how she feels.

    Background of the case

    The case stems from the April 18 courthouse encounter in which agents from ICE and other federal agencies arrived outside Dugan’s courtroom with a warrant for Flores-Ruiz’s arrest.

    Prosecutors alleged Dugan directed agents away from the arrest location and that Flores-Ruiz later left through a restricted area before being arrested outside.

    Flores-Ruiz’s underlying state case involved a domestic violence allegation. In opening statements, prosecutors referenced the charge he faced that day: battery — domestic abuse — infliction of physical pain or injury. Flores-Ruiz has since been deported.

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  • Menards settles with several states in suit over 11% Rebate Program, COVID price gouging

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    The Minnesota Attorney General’s Office says Menards, the Wisconsin-based home improvement retailer, has reached a $4.25 million settlement with several states to “resolve claims” of deceptive marketing practices in its popular “11% Rebate Program” and pandemic-era price gouging.

    Attorney General Keith Ellison said Minnesota will receive $632,167 of the settlement filed on Wednesday in Ramsey County with parent company Menard Inc., headquartered in Eau Claire, Wisconsin. The company’s home state was also involved in the suit, along with Arizona, Illinois, Iowa, Kansas, Michigan, Nebraska, Ohio and South Dakota.

    According to court documents, the attorneys general alleged Menards deceived customers with its promise of saving “big money” through the rebate program because there is actually no real point-of-purchase discount. Instead, customers must fill out a rebate form to eventually receive in-store credit on subsequent purchases.

    The suit also alleged the company obscured the fact that Rebates International — the name on the address of where rebate forms are sent — is part of Menard Inc. and not a separate company.  

    “An ad that says ‘11% OFF EVERYTHING’ clearly implies that you can buy goods at an 11% discount, not that you can participate in a limited rebate program or get in-store credit for future purchases,” Ellison said in a news release. “Today’s settlement holds Menards accountable for how they advertised their rebate program in the past and ensures that program will be more honest in the future.”

    The suit also alleged Menard Inc. “engaged in price gouging during the COVID-19 pandemic by raising prices on items such as rubbing alcohol, garbage bags, dish soap, and neoprene gloves.”

    Ellison said Menard Inc. agreed to make several “advertising and sales practices” changes as part of the settlement, including “clearly and conspicuously disclosing material limitations of the rebate program,” making it clear Rebates International and Menards are one and the same and abstaining from price gouging “during a period of abnormal economic disruption.”

    According to Forbes, Menards is the third-largest home improvement chain in the U.S., with Home Depot and Lowe’s in the top two spots. The company has 300-plus stores in 15 states, with most in the Midwest.

    WCCO has reached out to Menard Inc. for comment.

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    Stephen Swanson

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  • The Snapchat Clue

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    The Snapchat Clue – CBS News









































    Watch CBS News



    When his parents disappear, Chandler Halderson’s social media helps investigators unravel the case. “48 Hours” correspondent Erin Moriarty reports.

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  • Former Trump Aides Appear In Wisconsin Court Over 2020 Election Fraud Charges – KXL

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    FILE – Jim Troupis reads a statement after his court appearance outside a Dane County courtroom Dec. 12, 2024, in Madison, Wis. (AP Photo/Morry Gash, File)

    MADISON, Wis. (AP) — Two attorneys and an aide who all worked on President Donald Trump’s 2020 campaign appeared in court Monday for a preliminary hearing in Wisconsin on felony forgery charges related to a fake elector scheme.

    The Wisconsin case is moving forward even as others in the battleground states of Michigan and Georgia have faltered. A special prosecutor last year dropped a federal case alleging Trump conspired to overturn the 2020 election. Another case in Nevada is still alive.

    The Wisconsin case was filed a year ago but has been tied up as the Trump aides have fought, unsuccessfully so far, to have the charges dismissed.

    The hearing on Monday comes a week after Trump attorney Jim Troupis, one of the three who were charged, tried unsuccessfully to get the judge to step down in the case and have it moved to another county. Troupis, who the other two defendants joined in his motion, alleged that the judge did not write a previous order issued in August declining to dismiss the case. Instead, he accused the father of the judge’s law clerk, a retired judge, of actually writing the opinion.

    Troupis, who served one year as a judge in the same county where he was charged, also alleged that all of the judges in Dane County are biased against him and he can’t get a fair trial.

    Dane County Circuit Judge John Hyland said he and a staff attorney alone wrote the order. Hyland also said Troupis presented no evidence to back up his claims of bias and refused to step down or delay the hearing.

    Republican U.S. Sen. Ron Johnson asked the U.S. Department of Justice to investigate the allegations.

    The same judge will determine at Monday’s hearing whether there’s enough evidence to proceed with the charges against the three.

    The former Trump aides face 11 felony charges each related to their roles in the 2020 fake elector scheme. In addition to Troupis, the other defendants are Kenneth Chesebro, an attorney who advised Trump’s campaign, and Mike Roman, Trump’s director of Election Day operations in 2020.

    The Wisconsin Department of Justice, headed by Democratic Attorney General Josh Kaul, brought the felony forgery charges in 2024, alleging that the three defrauded the 10 Republican electors who cast their ballots for Trump in 2020.

    Prosecutors contend the three lied to the Republicans about how the certificate they signed would be used as part of a plan to submit paperwork to then-Vice President Mike Pence, falsely claiming that Trump had won the battleground state that year.

    The complaint said a majority of the 10 Republicans told investigators that they were needed to sign the elector certificate indicating Trump had won only to preserve his legal options if a court changed the outcome of the election in Wisconsin.

    A majority of the electors told investigators that they did not believe their signatures on the elector certificate would be submitted to Congress without a court ruling, the complaint said. Also, a majority said they did not consent to having their signatures presented as if Trump had won without such a court ruling, the complaint said.

    Federal prosecutors who investigated Trump’s conduct related to the Jan. 6, 2021, U.S. Capitol riot said the fake electors scheme originated in Wisconsin.

    The Trump associates have argued that no crime took place. But the judge in August rejected their arguments in allowing the case to proceed to Monday’s preliminary hearing.

    Trump lost Wisconsin in 2020 but fought to have the defeat overturned. He won the state in both 2016 and 2024.

    The state charges against the Trump attorneys and aide are the only ones in Wisconsin. None of the electors have been charged. The 10 Wisconsin electors, Chesebro and Troupis all settled a lawsuit that was brought against them seeking damages.

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    Grant McHill

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  • More Loons Are Filling Maine’s Lakes With Their Ghost-Like Calls

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    PORTLAND, Maine (AP) — Loons are on the mend in Maine, filling more of the state’s lakes and ponds with their haunting calls, although conservations say the birds aren’t out of the woods yet.

    Maine is home to a few thousand of the distinctive black-and-white waterbirds — the East Coast’s largest loon population — and conservationists said efforts to protect them from threats helped grow the population. An annual count of common loons found more adults and chicks this year than last, Maine Audubon said this week.

    The group said it estimated a population for the southern half of Maine of 3,174 adult loons and 568 chicks. Audubon bases its count on the southern portion of Maine because there are enough bird counters to get a reliable number. The count is more than twice the number when they started counting in 1983, and the count of adult adult loons has increased 13% from 10 years ago.

    “We’re cautiously optimistic after seeing two years of growing chick numbers,” said Maine Audubon wildlife ecologist Tracy Hart. “But it will take several more years before we know if that is a real upward trend, or just two really good years.”

    Maine lawmakers have attempted to grow the population of the loons with bans on lead fishing tackle that the birds sometimes accidentally swallow. Laws that limit boat speeds have also helped because they prevent boat wakes from washing out nests, conservation groups say.

    It’s still too early to know if Maine’s loons are on a sustainable path to recovery, and the success of the state’s breeding loons is critical to the population at large, Hart said. Maine has thousands more loons than the other New England states, with the other five states combining for about 1,000 adults. The state is home to one of the largest populations of loons in the U.S., which has about 27,000 breeding adults in total.

    Minnesota has the most loons in the lower 48 states, with a fairly stable population of about 12,000 adults, but they are in decline in some parts of their range.

    While loons are not listed under the U.S. Endangered Species Act, they are considered threatened by some states, including New Hampshire and Michigan. The U.S. Forest Service also considers the common loon a sensitive species.

    The birds migrate to the ocean in late fall and need a long runway to take off, meaning winter can be a treacherous time for the birds because they get trapped by ice in the lakes and ponds where they breed, said Barb Haney, executive director of Avian Haven, a wildlife rehabilitation center in Freedom, Maine.

    “We’re getting a lot of calls about loons that are iced in,” Haney said, adding that the center was tending to one such patient this week.

    Copyright 2025 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.

    Photos You Should See – December 2025

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  • What you need to know about keeping your pets safe over the holidays

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    NATIONWIDE — The weather outside is frightful, but there’s no need to frighten your pets this holiday season.

    “As you gear up for the holidays, it is important to try to keep your pet’s eating and exercise habits as close to their normal routine as possible. Also, please be sure to steer pets clear of the following unhealthy treats, toxic plants and dangerous decorations,” the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA) said.

    ASPCA released these safety tips ahead of the holiday:

    (AP Photo/Frank Augstein, Pool)

    Christmas tree safety

    Secure your Christmas tree so it doesn’t fall onto your pet. Additionally, make sure any tree water for live trees does not spill. Pets should not be drinking water from tree stands, as it can contain fertilizers and cause an upset stomach. 

    Plus, stagnant water can be a “breeding ground for bacteria,” leading to other stomach troubles, including nausea, vomiting and diarrhea

    Avoid tummy aches from greenery

    Mistletoe and holly can cause both gastrointestinal and cardiovascular problems if a furry family member eats them. Lilies can also cause kidney failure in cats. Poinsettias can cause an upset stomach. 

    To be extra safe, ASPCA suggested choosing fake plants made from materials such as silk or plastic. If you want to stick to genuine greenery, opt for a pet-safe bouquet. 

    Tinsel trouble

    ASPCA said that if you have furry family members, it’s best to skip tinsel entirely. 

    Tinsel looks like a toy to some pets. They may want to play with it or even snack on it. If animals eat tinsel, it could cause vomiting or dehydration. Tinsel may also cause an obstructed digestive tract that may require surgery to repair. 

    (AP Photo)

    Careful with candles

    Pets have been known to burn themselves on unattended lighted candles, or even start a fire if they knock them over. ASPCA recommended using appropriate candle holders on a stable surface. If you leave the room, blow out the flame. Of course, flameless candles can also brighten up a room. 

    Watch your wires

    Pets should not be able to get into wires, batteries, plastic ornaments or glass decor. 

    ASPCA said wires could shock a pet, while a battery could burn their mouth or esophagus. Breakable ornaments could also harm your pet’s mouth or digestive tract. 

    Skip these treats

    Avoid giving your pets anything fatty, spicy or sweet.

    ”By now you know not to feed your pets chocolate and anything sweetened with xylitol, but do you know the lengths to which an enterprising pet will go to chomp on something yummy?” ASPCA said. “Make sure to keep your pets away from the table and unattended plates of food, and be sure to secure the lids on garbage cans.”

    Plus, don’t give your pets any bones from your leftovers.

    Keep an eye on your drink

    If you’re indulging in alcoholic beverages, keep them in a safe place where your pets can’t get a taste. If a pet drinks alcohol, they “could become weak, ill and may even go into a coma, possibly resulting in death from respiratory failure,” ASPCA said.

    (AP Photo/Vadim Ghirda)

    Gift guide

    If you’re gifting something special to your pet, make sure to choose toys that are “basically undestructible,” or Kongs and safe-to-digest chew treats.

    While kittens love to play with long strings like ribbon and yarn, these can get stuck in intestines. ASPCA suggested choosing “a new ball that’s too big to swallow, a stuffed catnip toy or the interactive cat dancer” instead.

    ASPCA also reminded pet owners to be mindful of wrapped gifts. Even if you can’t see what’s inside, your pet may smell it. Keep any food, even if wrapped, out of paws’ reach. 

    Visitor rules

    If your house guests want to give your pets some extra TLC, encourage petting or snuggle sessions and nice playtime.

    Ensure your medicines are locked or secured, and advise your visitors to do the same to avoid a pet ingesting medications. 

    Recharge

    The holidays can be a stressful time for humans and animals alike. Make sure your pet has their own, quiet place to relax. It should include fresh water and a place to snuggle, ASPCA said. 

    “Shy pups and cats might want to hide out under a piece of furniture, in their carrying case or in a separate room away from the hubbub,” ASPCA added. 

    New Year’s noise

    If you’re celebrating New Year’s, make sure to keep your pet’s comfort and safety in mind, too.

    ”As you count down to the new year, please keep in mind that strings of thrown confetti can get lodged in a cat’s intestines, if ingested, perhaps necessitating surgery,” ASPCA said. “Noisy poppers can terrify pets and cause possible damage to sensitive ears. And remember that many pets are also scared of fireworks, so be sure to secure them in a safe, escape-proof area as midnight approaches.”

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    Aly Prouty

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  • The earliest sunset isn’t on the winter solstice

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    The winter solstice will occur at 10:03 a.m. ET on Dec. 21 this year, and even though the day of the winter solstice is the shortest of the year, the latest sunrise and earliest sunset do not occur on this day.

    What You Need To Know

    • The solar day impacts sunrises and sunsets

    • A solar day is longer near the winter solstice

    • The sun rises later in the winter and sets later



    Understanding a solar day

    Solar noon is when the sun reaches its highest point in the sky. The time from one solar noon to the next solar noon is called a solar day.

    The length of a solar day changes throughout the year because of the tilt and position of the Earth. Because of this, a solar day can be more than or less than 24 hours depending on the time of the year.

    The problem is that we count our days as exactly 24 hours. So, with the solar day being more than 24 hours near the winter solstice, this means solar noon will occur at a later time each day. The sun will also rise later and set later.

    If the sun is setting later each day before the solstice, that means the earliest sunset has already happened.

    Since the sun also rises later each day, this means the latest sunrise has yet to occur. The latest sunrise will happen a few weeks after the official start of winter.

    Our team of meteorologists dives deep into the science of weather and breaks down timely weather data and information. To view more weather and climate stories, check out our weather blogs section.

     

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    Spectrum News Weather Staff

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  • The Geminid meteor shower peaks this weekend

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    The Geminid meteor shower peaks heading into this weekend.

    What You Need To Know

    • Geminid meteor shower peaks the night of Dec. 13

    • Up to 150 meteors per hour

    • Known as one of the best meteor showers of the year



    Every year in December, the night sky treats us to one of the best and brightest displays known as the Geminid meteor shower. 

    When to watch

    The Geminids can be viewed in the night sky as early as 9 p.m. The best time to view the Geminid meteor shower will be in the pre-dawn hours between 1 and 3 a.m.

    Tips for viewing

    To see up to 150 meteors in one hour, you will need to be far away from city lights and tall buildings. Ideally, there will be clear skies for viewing on the night of the 13th. 

    After you arrive, avoid bright lights, such as phone screens, for 15–20 minutes so your eyes can adapt to the darkness.

    A waning crescent moon will make viewing conditions even better because there will not be much moonlight to wash out the meteors, which are often bright and vivid.

    Here is the cloud forecast through the weekend across the country. 


    Even though the peak is this weekend, you can still view the Geminid meteor shower through December 21st. 

    Our team of meteorologists dives deep into the science of weather and breaks down timely weather data and information. To view more weather and climate stories, check out our weather blogs section.

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    Meteorologist Ramel Carpenter

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  • December’s ‘Cold Moon’ will be the final supermoon of the year

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    December’s full moon will appear in the sky this week. It’s the final full moon and third supermoon of the year, also known as the ‘Cold Moon.’ The Cold Moon gets its name from being closest to the winter solstice. It is also known as the ‘Moon Before Yule’ and the ‘Long Night Moon.’

    It reached its peak illumination at 6:14 p.m. EST on Thursday, Dec. 4, but it will be visible and appear full to the naked eye during the next couple nights.

    What You Need To Know

    • December’s full moon peaks Thursday evening

    • It’s the final full moon and third supermoon of 2025

    • The next full moon will be the ‘Wolf Moon’ on Jan. 3, 2026


    The Cold Moon will notably be the highest full moon of the year in the Northern Hemisphere. The sun will be at its lowest point in the sky, which means that the moon will be at the opposite. That means that you will be able to see the bright Cold Moon for a longer period in the night sky.

    What is a supermoon?

    A supermoon is when the full moon happens at the same time the moon’s orbit is at its closest to Earth. The moon will appear brighter and larger than normal. This year’s Cold Moon will be the third supermoon of 2025, joining October’s ‘Harvest Moon’ and November’s ‘Beaver Moon’.

    Moon phases

    There are eight different phases of the moon. What phase follows a full moon?

    Our team of meteorologists dives deep into the science of weather and breaks down timely weather data and information. To view more weather and climate stories, check out our weather blogs section.

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    Meteorologist Reid Lybarger

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  • December’s ‘Cold Moon’ will be the final supermoon of the year

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    December’s full moon will appear in the sky this week. It’s the final full moon and third supermoon of the year, also known as the ‘Cold Moon.’ The Cold Moon gets its name from being closest to the winter solstice. It is also known as the ‘Moon Before Yule’ and the ‘Long Night Moon.’

    It reached its peak illumination at 6:14 p.m. EST on Thursday, Dec. 4, but it will be visible and appear full to the naked eye during the next couple nights.

    What You Need To Know

    • December’s full moon peaks Thursday evening

    • It’s the final full moon and third supermoon of 2025

    • The next full moon will be the ‘Wolf Moon’ on Jan. 3, 2026


    The Cold Moon will notably be the highest full moon of the year in the Northern Hemisphere. The sun will be at its lowest point in the sky, which means that the moon will be at the opposite. That means that you will be able to see the bright Cold Moon for a longer period in the night sky.

    What is a supermoon?

    A supermoon is when the full moon happens at the same time the moon’s orbit is at its closest to Earth. The moon will appear brighter and larger than normal. This year’s Cold Moon will be the third supermoon of 2025, joining October’s ‘Harvest Moon’ and November’s ‘Beaver Moon’.

    Moon phases

    There are eight different phases of the moon. What phase follows a full moon?

    Our team of meteorologists dives deep into the science of weather and breaks down timely weather data and information. To view more weather and climate stories, check out our weather blogs section.

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    Meteorologist Reid Lybarger

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  • Here’s why you might feel sleepy after a Thanksgiving meal

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    OHIO — Did you eat your fill this Thanksgiving? Feeling like taking a little nap?

    According to a Cleveland Clinic dietitian, there’s some science behind why you may be getting drowsy on Turkey Day, and the turkey is actually part of it.

    What You Need To Know

    • According to the Cleveland Clinic, turkey contains the amino acid tryptophan, which can cause drowsiness

    • Other foods also contain this amino acid

    • You may also be getting sleepy due to the amount of food you’re eating or alcohol you’re consuming

    According to a post on the hospital system’s website, they said the amino acid called tryptophan is found in turkey, and it can cause drowsiness. It’s also found in other foods such as chicken, milk, peanuts, pumpkin seeds and more.

    However, it’s not this amino acid alone that may be making you tired. The Cleveland Clinic states that another reason could be due to the amount of food you’re eating.

    “The meal typically contains large amounts of carbs (stuffing, potatoes, pie, desserts, rolls), which can spike your blood sugar initially,” Dietitian Julia Zumpano said in the post. “But then, your blood sugar levels crash or decrease, which leaves you feeling lethargic.”

    Additionally, she said more blood is directed to your bowels to help with digestion, leaving less in the brain, “causing you to feel less alert.”

    Finally, if you had any alcohol (fairly common during the holidays), that’s likely to make you even more sleepy.

    Here’s how they say you can avoid becoming sleepy:

    • Make your portions smaller
    • Limit yourself on alcohol
    • Eat slower and cut yourself off when you’re full
    • Consider taking a walk
    • Make sure get enough sleep the night before the holiday

    Alternatively, the family room couch can be awfully comfy. Maybe a little nap is still an option.

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    Spectrum News Staff

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