What Parts of the U.S. Will Enjoy Clear Viewing of Thursday's Supermoon

The last supermoon of the year is set to peak on Thursday night. While the moon will be bright and big, observers will still need clear skies to be able to catch it in all of its glory. Here is a look at what parts of the country will enjoy the best conditions as the moon rises in the sky.

December's Cold Moon Will Peak Thursday Night

December's Cold Moon is going to live up to its moniker. A blast of Arctic air at the hands of a shifting polar vortex will make for a chilly viewing experience. The final supermoon of 2025 is the last one in a trio of supermoons over the last few months.

Although it may seem like a weird coincidence that there were three supermoons in three consecutive months, there is actually a scientific explanation for this. According to NASA, supermoons happen when the moon moves closer to Earth as it makes its orbit. The closer proximity of the moon to the planet makes it appear much brighter and larger. For example, a supermoon can look as much as 30% brighter and 14% larger than the smallest and faintest moon of the year.

The supermoon made an appearance on Wednesday night but will peak on Thursday. The Old Farmer's Almanac notes that the peak time of the Thursday showing will happen right after sunset at 6:15 pm EST.

The Mohawk tribe is the group credited with giving the moon the nickname of the Cold Moon. Right on cue, a blast of Arctic air will deliver bitter temperatures to a large part of the central and eastern U.S.

Those who are lucky enough to see a break in the clouds in the northern half of the country will need to bundle up before heading outside.