Lunar Eclipse Expected Early Tuesday Morning

Viewing conditions may be impacted by high, thin clouds

Published on Mar. 2, 2026

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A lunar eclipse is scheduled to occur early Tuesday morning in the Rochester, New York area. The eclipse will begin at 4:50 AM and reach its maximum point at 6:33 AM, causing the moon to appear with a reddish hue as it passes through the Earth's shadow. However, the viewing conditions may be affected by high, thin clouds that are expected to move in after midnight.

Why it matters

Lunar eclipses are relatively rare astronomical events that capture the public's interest. While this eclipse will be visible in the Rochester area, the cloud cover could impact the clarity and visibility of the event for local residents.

The details

The lunar eclipse is expected to begin at 4:50 AM on Tuesday morning and reach its maximum point at 6:33 AM. As the moon passes through the Earth's shadow, it will take on a reddish appearance. However, the viewing conditions may be affected by high, thin clouds that are forecast to move into the area after midnight. These clouds could filter the clarity of the eclipse, but are not expected to completely obscure the event.

  • The lunar eclipse will begin at 4:50 AM on Tuesday, March 3, 2026.
  • The eclipse will reach its maximum point at 6:33 AM on Tuesday, March 3, 2026.

The players

News10NBC

A local news station serving the Rochester, New York area.

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What they’re saying

“We anticipate high, thin clouds will be on the increase after midnight. That would not preclude the viewing but just filter the clarity as the eclipse appears.”

— Glenn Johnson, News10NBC Meteorologist (whec.com)

What’s next

The News10NBC First Alert weather team will continue to monitor the forecast and provide updates on the expected viewing conditions for the lunar eclipse.

The takeaway

While a lunar eclipse is an exciting astronomical event, the viewing experience in the Rochester area may be impacted by cloud cover. Residents should be prepared for the possibility of reduced visibility, but the eclipse should still be visible, even if the clarity is somewhat diminished.