News Summary
In South Carolina, scattered thunderstorms are expected today as the highly anticipated Strawberry Moon rises tonight. With an 80% chance of rain, residents will have to contend with wet conditions, especially along the coast. However, pleasant afternoon temperatures around 85°F are forecasted, with a mild breeze making the evening’s full moon viewing more enjoyable. The Strawberry Moon, named after the traditional strawberry harvesting season, will be visible just before sunset, with its peak fullness occurring overnight. This full moon is especially notable, being positioned lowest in the sky in nearly two decades.
Charleston, South Carolina – Scattered thunderstorms are forecasted for South Carolina today, coinciding with the rise of the highly anticipated Strawberry Moon this evening. Rain in the morning is expected to become widespread by the afternoon, with an 80% chance of precipitation across the state. Despite the wet conditions, most areas will experience pleasant afternoon temperatures around 85°F.
Winds will be coming from the south-southwest at speeds of 5 to 10 mph, providing a mild breeze as residents prepare for the evening’s full moon. The low temperature tonight is projected to hover around 74°F, keeping with the warmer weather of early summer.
The Strawberry Moon, named after the traditional strawberry harvesting season in the northeastern United States, will rise tonight and is expected to appear full to the naked eye, even though it will not reach its peak fullness until 3:43 a.m. on June 11. Those wanting to catch a glimpse of the moon should look for it on the southeastern horizon at sunset, which will occur just before 8:30 p.m. in the Lowcountry and just after 8:40 p.m. in the Upstate.
Although forecasted rain and thunderstorms primarily affect coastal areas from Hilton Head through Charleston and Myrtle Beach, the Upstate, including Greenville, may experience partly cloudy and pleasant conditions. The Columbia area might be fortunate enough to view the full moon before rain arrives later in the evening.
The June full moon is notably significant this year, as it is set to be the lowest in the sky in nearly two decades, a result of the moon’s position in its orbit. Additionally, the full moon will rise and set at its most northern and southern points on the horizon, an occurrence that takes place every 18.7 years. The last time this phenomenon occurred was in 2006, with the next expected in 2043.
For those interested in capturing memorable photographs of the Strawberry Moon, experts suggest photographing it as it rises or sets low on the horizon. Composing images with foreground subjects such as church steeples or lighthouses can create stunning visual contrasts against the backdrop of the luminous moon.
The June full moon, also referred to by several traditional names including Blooming Moon, Green Corn Moon, Birthing Moon, Egg Laying Moon, and Hatching Moon, has significant cultural importance and is looked forward to each year by astronomy enthusiasts and casual observers alike. As the last full moon of spring, it marks a transition into the summer months, bringing longer days and an abundance of outdoor activities.
As South Carolinians brace for the Strawberry Moon tonight, they are also reminded to prepare for potential rain and thunder in the atmosphere, which may impact visibility in some regions. Whether viewed amidst rain or clear skies, the full moon promises to deliver a celestial spectacle for the state.
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Additional Resources
- Post and Courier
- Wikipedia: Full Moon
- Live 5 News
- Google Search: Strawberry Moon
- Island Packet
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Moon
- ABC News 4
- Google News: June Full Moon
- Space.com
- Google Scholar: Strawberry Moon
