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A meteor streaks across the sky over a desert in China during the Orionid meteor shower on Oct. 22, 2023.(VCG/VCG via Getty Images)The Orionid meteor shower is peaking this week, and it promises to be one of the most dazzling displays of the year. And while some of you will have clear skies, rain and clouds could impact the view for others. Here's what you need to know about the Orionids and your forecast:Fast factsPeak day: The meteor shower peaks Wednesday night, Oct. 21, into the early hours of Thursday morning, Oct. 22. Peak time: From midnight to dawn are the best hours to catch the meteors streaking through the sky, so plan on a late night or really early morning. What the Orionids are known for: The Orionid meteors are known for their brightness and their speed. As they streak across the sky at around 41 miles per second, the meteors leave behind a glowing "train" that can last several seconds to minutes. While you can make the perfect plan to catch the Orionids, the key to stellar viewing is still in Mother Nature's hands. The good news is that many of you should have good meteor shower-watching conditions. Much of the central and eastern U. S.

Hurricane Trudy will bring flood threat to the Southwest USTropical moisture and favorable atmospheric conditions will fuel a multiday flood risk this week across seven states from California to Colorado. Severe storms are also likely, especially across Arizona. Days of rain will bring a threat of debris flows and landslides, especially across burn scars. Timing out this week’s rainfallWednesday: The highest risk of flooding on Wednesday covers much of Arizona and New Mexico, and portions of Colorado and Utah, as well as Southern California. There will be an abundance of moisture available to support heavy downpours and training storms. This means storms will produce heavy rain over the same areas for long periods of time. The Weather Prediction Center is forecasting rainfall rates as high as 2 inches per hour. Some of the biggest concerns will be the possibility of mudslides over recent burn scar areas as well as slot canyons and arroyos. If you have plans to visit any of the national parks in the West this week, make sure you check the forecast daily and pay attention to any warnings or advisories issued.

An October nor'easter is swirling off the East Coast, bringing gusty winds, coastal flooding and rip currents to much of the region. Track the storm here with all the maps you need. (MORE: Nor'easter lashes coast from Carolinas to Northeast)Current informationCurrent wind gustsCoastal flood alertsImpact forecastWave heightsGet More of Our News on GoogleSet The Weather Company as a 'Preferred Source' to get quicker access to the news you value. River gauge forecastCould it get a name? The National Hurricane Center is watching this nor'easter as well. Due to its unique properties, should it get a name, it will become Subtropical Storm Josephine.