One of the principal features of this current alert is the alignment between the Moon and Neptune. This will commence around 19:00 GMT (14:00 EDT) and will last for around 12 hours.

Likely mood traits to result from this include the possibility of acute emotional sensitivity and a potential for confused, chaotic, or unstable emotions that may verge on the neurotic. There may also be a strong element of escapist behaviour, with inclinations towards deceit or devious intentions.

Moon/Neptune alignments can also result in highly refined and sensitive responses and impressions that will enhance creative and expressional abilities. For some, imagination and perception will be very much increased almost to the point of psychic awareness.

The problem is that sometimes added perception can lead to an overload of moods and impressions, that may be filled with morbid fascination or a crippling obsession over the most ordinary of concerns. As a result problems may tend to be magnified and since we are only just several days beyond the New Moon there may be a plethora of fears and worries that weigh heavily on the mind. Indeed this is still very much a powerful mood atmosphere that for some will verge towards crisis point.

Under these circumstances those vulnerable to panic attacks or sensitive mood atmospheres may come to feel especially pressured. Feelings of aggression or frustration may also be apparent and although this atmosphere is not as overtly contentious as a few days ago there is still the potential for raised tempers and volatile expression. In fact any tendency towards contentious moods may be further raised by the continuing opposition between Mars and Jupiter which has been active for some weeks now.

It is also worth remembering that Saturn is still very much in opposition to Uranus and will remain so until the first week of February. With regards to moods this can result in feelings that can swiftly polarise between hard edged ambition with a cruel and egotistical outlook, and those of a more restrained disposition that will be susceptible to doubts and misgivings as well as poor self confidence and pessimism. In addition there may be an element of depression with varying levels of despair or futility, or frustration over mundane elements of everyday life.

It will be appreciated that the current emotional atmosphere is one of many complex factors that as well as anything may lead to confusion or insecurity and a reduced sense of overall well being. However the latter part of the week may see a significant fall in the intensity of emotion which for some will come as a welcome relief.

Alert is 8. Moon 5% illuminated.