The Snow Moon rises tonight as the last full moon of meteorological winter – here’s what it is and how to spot it across Ireland
Caroline Barry and Ellie Gosley
18:50, 01 Feb 2026Updated 18:57, 01 Feb 2026
The Snow Moon rises over Liverpool city centre this evening(Image: Liverpool Echo)
In the past few weeks, there have been some spectacular sights across Irish skies including the bright colours of the stunning Northern Lights at the start of the year. This was followed by a Wolf Moon in January.
There are reports that a forthcoming full moon will brighten the skies at the start of February, 2026, reports North Wales Live.
The moon will reach maximum brightness at 10.09pm, whilst positioned below the horizon, though it will still maintain its ‘full’ appearance when it emerges at night and tomorrow. During sunset, the Snow Moon will seem particularly large and golden owing to an optical illusion created by atmospheric refraction and visual perception.
This particular moon is known as a Snow Moon which is the last chance to witness a complete full moon during a meterological winter tonight, Sunday, February 1. It’s occasionally referred to as the Storm Moon or Hungry Moon.
February’s Snow Moon got its title from the chances of snow during the wintery months.(Image: Liverpool Echo)
So what is a snow moon and how can you find it in Irish skies?
This moon phase is traditionally thought to represent transformation, optimism and a fresh start which makes it perfectly timed for the start of a new year. February’s Snow Moon got its title from the chances of snow during the wintery months.
If you head outside at 4.13pm then you should be able to see the moon which remains visible until 8:06pm on February, 2. This time may vary depending on what part of the country you are in.
Every full moon throughout the year carries its own designation, with 12 lunar cycles occurring annually. This year, there will be an extra moon in May making it 13 lunar cycles – this is known as a blue moon.
Met Éireann estimates that the weather tonight will be bright and have clear spells across the country with light to moderate, westernly winds which make for perfect viewing weather. It will be cold but dry this evening with patches of mist forming in light, easterly or variable winds.
Met Éireann estimates that the weather tonight will be bright and have clear spells across the country with light to moderate, westernly winds which make for perfect viewing weather(Image: Hadyn Iball / North Wales Live)
It should become cloudier by the morning with winds increasing to light to moderate with a frost developing. Tomorrow will see cloudy but dry weather but outbreaks of rain will move into parts of southwest Ireland through the afternoon and evening – heavy at times.
Astronomy enthusiasts Sky and Earth highlight that this month’s full moon will be exceptionally striking as it will be positioned near the renowned Beehive Cluster, a magnificent open star cluster observable through binoculars. Directly beneath the moon, observers will spot Regulus, the dazzling “heart” of Leo.
The following full moon will not occur until March 3, making this the perfect opportunity to witness one whilst possible.