Taurid Meteors Peak Tonight, With Fireballs Possible in November
WHO:
The Weather Channel - The Taurid meteor shower has two phases: the Southern Taurids and the Northern Taurids.
The Weather Channel - Ada Wood is a content writer who covers science, climate, and the natural world.
WHAT:
Space.com - The Taurid meteor shower was described as peaking “tonight,” with fireballs possible in the coming weeks.
The Weather Channel - The Taurids produce about five meteors per hour, making the shower a low-rate display with slow-moving meteors.
The Weather Channel - Taurid fireballs can appear as larger explosions of light and color and may remain visible longer than an average meteor streak.
The Weather Channel - This year’s Taurid fireball activity was characterized as about average; the next predicted fireball swarm is not expected until 2032.
WHERE:
The Weather Channel - The meteors appear to originate near Taurus, the constellation from which the Taurids take their name.
The Weather Channel - The Southern and Northern Taurids are associated with the southern and northern sides of the Taurus constellation.
The Weather Channel - Taurids are produced by Comet Encke.
WHEN:
The Weather Channel - The Taurids are active for weeks during October and November, with this year’s activity lasting until about Nov. 20.
The Weather Channel - The Southern Taurids peak around the night of Nov. 5; the Northern Taurids peak around Nov. 11.
The Weather Channel - The article says viewers can also watch on the nights before and after each peak.
WHY:
The Weather Channel - The shower’s name comes from the constellation Taurus, where its meteors appear to originate.
The Weather Channel - Taurid meteors are small pieces of space rock that burn up as they enter Earth’s atmosphere.
The Weather Channel - Visibility depends primarily on darkness, including moon brightness, and cloud cover.
HOW:
The Weather Channel - For the Southern Taurids, the Moon is described as a 17%-illuminated waning crescent, rising a couple of hours before dawn.
The Weather Channel - For the Northern Taurids, the Moon is described as a 5%-illuminated waxing crescent, providing a dark sky.
The Weather Channel - Viewing tips include choosing an open, low-light-pollution location, checking the weather, and allowing at least 20 minutes in complete darkness for eyes to adjust without phones or flashlights.
(UPDATED November 4, 2026 19:13 UTC)
The Taurid meteor shower peaks in two phases, with slow-moving meteors and occasional bright fireballs. Expect about five meteors hourly, as Southern Taurids peak November 5 and Northern Taurids November 11. Look toward Taurus from a dark, open spot; clear skies and patience improve viewing chances.