Blood Moon Eclipse: Weather May Determine Viewing in SA

JOHANNESBURG — 6 September 2025

South Africa will have a chance to see a rare total lunar eclipse — a Blood Moon — on Sunday, 7 September, but clear skies are crucial for viewing.

This is the longest total lunar eclipse since 2022. Cloudy weather could block views across parts of the country, meteorologists warn.

Regional outlooks for Sunday evening:

Johannesburg: Skies start cloudy at 19:00, which may obscure the peak eclipse at 20:11. Conditions could improve later. (weather forecast)

Cape Town: Mostly clear with possible intermittent cloud cover between 19:00-20:00. Conditions should improve after 21:00. The outlook is favourable.

Durban: Clear skies are expected throughout the evening — the best predicted viewing conditions. (weather forecast)

The total eclipse phase lasts over an hour, peaking around 20:11 when the moon turns blood-red. Thin clouds might not completely block the view.

Astronomy groups plan live online streams for areas with poor visibility.