Orionid Meteor Shower Peaks as Clouds Threaten US Viewing

The Orionid meteor shower reaches its peak Wednesday night, Oct. 21, into the early hours of Thursday, Oct. 22, 2026, giving skywatchers across the United States a chance to observe the annual celestial display. According to weather.com meteorologist Caitlin Kaiser, much of the central and eastern US is expected to have favorable viewing conditions, while clouds, rain and storms could obstruct visibility in several western areas and parts of the Northeast.

The best viewing window runs from midnight until dawn, when observers can watch meteors cross the night sky. The forecast published by weather.com on Oct. 21 identifies the Four Corners region, parts of the West Coast and areas from New York City to New England as potential trouble spots because of cloud cover and approaching weather systems.

The Orionids are known for their brightness and speed, traveling at approximately 41 miles per second. According to the weather.com report, the meteors can leave glowing trails that remain visible for several seconds to minutes.

Across much of the central and eastern United States, forecasters expect relatively clear skies during the early hours of Thursday, providing favorable conditions for meteor watching. However, conditions vary by location, and cloud cover could limit visibility even in areas otherwise suited to stargazing.

In the Rocky Mountain region and Southwest, thicker clouds could interfere with observations around the Four Corners. The area contains numerous dark-sky parks, which are normally suitable locations for viewing meteors, but the forecast indicates that clouds could make this region less favorable during the peak.

Along the West Coast, portions of California, Oregon and Washington may also experience cloudy skies. Some locations could retain clear viewing conditions, although the weather.com forecast indicates that conditions will differ across the region.

The East Coast faces a separate weather concern. According to Kaiser, a nor'easter developing offshore is expected to linger through the middle and latter part of the week, with its heaviest cloud cover concentrated mainly between New York City and New England.

Western states also face the threat of rain and thunderstorms as tropical moisture moves into the region. The weather.com report warns that flooding could become a concern Wednesday and Thursday, potentially preventing outdoor observations in parts of California, Nevada and the Four Corners region.

Skywatchers in areas with favorable weather can improve their viewing conditions by moving away from city lights and other sources of light pollution. The report recommends bringing a blanket, sleeping bag or lawn chair and allowing approximately 30 minutes for eyes to adjust to the darkness.

Observers can lie flat with their feet pointing southeast while watching the sky. The Orionids are expected to remain visible during the overnight peak period, although the number of meteors people see will depend partly on local weather and viewing conditions.