Leonid meteor shower peaks on 17 November, with cloud affecting UK viewing

The Leonid meteor shower will be active across November, with its peak expected on the night of 17 November, but cloud and fog could make it difficult to see in parts of the UK this weekend.

BBC Weather says the shower may produce 10 to 15 meteors an hour. The best chances of clear skies on Friday and Saturday appear to be in southern and western England and Wales, while cloud is expected in many other areas. By Sunday night, more of the UK may have clear spells, though fog could obscure the view.

The Leonids are caused by dust from Comet 55P/Tempel-Tuttle entering Earth’s atmosphere. The meteors can be seen with the naked eye. BBC Weather advises finding a dark, open place and allowing 20 to 30 minutes for eyes to adjust; clear skies are essential.

Viewing conditions may improve around the peak: the Moon is expected to be below the horizon around midnight, reducing the amount of moonlight in the sky. Temperatures will fall into single figures overnight, with a chance of frost in some places.