Despite a forecast calling for rain and clouds in parts of New York on Thursday, some residents may have a chance to see Thursday night's partial lunar eclipse.
"There's some hope," National Weather Service meteorologist Jon Hitchcock said. "There may be some breaks in the clouds and could be a window" for people in Western New York to view the eclipse.
Rain is expected earlier in the day, with overcast skies possible after midnight, Hitchcock said. But there could be a window for viewing before then.
Eastern and central New York also could see rain or thunderstorms Thursday night, according to the National Weather Service.
When is the August 2026 lunar eclipse?
The eclipse will begin at 9:23 p.m. ET Thursday, Aug. 27, according to Time and Date.
It will reach its maximum at 12:12 a.m.
ET Friday, Aug. 28, when the moon will be most deeply covered by Earth's shadow.
The eclipse also coincides with August's full Sturgeon Moon, which will reach its peak at 12:18 a.m. ET Friday, just six minutes after the eclipse reaches its maximum.
Who will be able to see the lunar eclipse?
Much of North America will be able to see at least part of the lunar eclipse, weather permitting, according to NASA. The East Coast and parts of the Midwest will have an opportunity to see the full eclipse, while Alaska and the West Coast will see only part of the event.
What viewers see will vary depending on their location and weather conditions.
About 96% of the moon's face will be covered, according to the Old Farmer's Almanac.
The eclipse also will be visible from parts of the Southern Hemisphere, with much of South America expected to see the full eclipse.
No special equipment is needed to view a lunar eclipse. Unlike a solar eclipse, it is safe to watch with the naked eye.
Eclipse weather conditions in NY cities
According to the National Weather Service, here's the forecast for Thursday evening, Aug. 27, in several New York cities:
- Buffalo: Partly cloudy
- Rochester: Partly cloudy
- Syracuse: Showers and thunderstorms possible
- Albany: Showers and thunderstorms possible
- Binghamton: Showers and thunderstorms likely
- Poughkeepsie: Showers and thunderstorms likely
- New York City: Showers and thunderstorms possible
This article originally appeared on Rochester Democrat and Chronicle: Lunar eclipse weather forecast for New York: Best viewing spots tonight
