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 facts

• Peak 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.

The forecast by region

While you can make the perfect plan to catch the Orionids, the key to stellar viewing is still in Mother Nature's hands.

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The good news is that many of you should have good meteor shower-watching conditions. Much of the central and eastern U.S. are forecast to have clear skies in the early morning hours on Thursday.

But, there are a couple of potential problem areas:

Rockies, Southwest

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Thicker cloud cover could impact sky-watchers in the Four Corners region. Home to numerous dark sky parks, what would normally be a prime area for seeing meteors speed across the sky will likely not be the best spot to catch the Orionids this year.

West Coast

Parts of California, Oregon and Washington could have some trouble with clouds as well. While there are still some pockets of the West Coast that could have clear viewing, you'll want to monitor your forecast closely.

The East Coast caveat

While much of the mid-Atlantic and Northeast looks clear for now, there is a nor'easter brewing off the East Coast that will linger mid-to-late week.

Now that we're closer to the day of the peak, we have a better idea of where clouds from the storm will be thickest, and it's mostly focused from New York City to New England.

(MORE: Nor'easter to churn up dangerous conditions off East Coast)

But, if you're thinking you might still take a chance with the clouds, keep in mind they aren't the only concern.

Rain and storms will creep into the West this week as tropical moisture is once again funneled into the region. Flooding will be a concern Wednesday and Thursday, so skywatching will likely be a no-go for parts of California, Nevada and the Four Corners.

(MORE: Flood risk from California to Colorado)

Viewing tips and tricks

If the forecast is in your favor, and you're ready to plan a night of stargazing and meteor shower-watching, here are a few things to keep in mind:

• Find an area well away from city lights or any other light pollution
• Bring a blanket, sleeping bag or lawn chair
• Lie flat with your feet facing southeast
• Give yourself 30 minutes to let your eyes adjust to the dark
• Be patient and enjoy the hours-long show!

Caitlin Kaiser graduated from the Georgia Institute of Technology with both an undergraduate and a graduate degree in Earth and Atmospheric Sciences before starting her career as a digital meteorologist with weather.com.