(NEXSTAR) – One thing is for certain – there will be a total solar eclipse on April 8, 2024. For some cities, what is less certain is whether or not they will get a cloud-free view of the phenomenon.
The eclipse is set to totally darken a number of states along a thin strip stretching from Texas to Maine called the path of totality, and give a partial view of the phenomenon throughout all 48 contiguous states.
With April’s reputation for showers, however, it may be worth taking a look at the “cloudiness map” created by scientists at the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) and the North Carolina Institute for Climate Studies before you settle on a viewing destination.
Historic averages for eclipse day
We’re still too far out for an accurate forecast, but the interactive map shows historical averages from thousands of points across the U.S. to help you pick a traditionally reliable spot to see the eclipse.
The map utilizes eclipse times from NASA, along with three decades-worth of weather data that include hourly average cloud cover, temperature, dewpoint, heat index and wind chill conditions.
By clicking on the black tab at the bottom of the map you can bring up a list of cities and historic data on cloud cover, weather and more.
So what’s historically been the least likely place in the U.S. to have clear skies during the eclipse window on April 8? Portland, Oregon has the lowest visibility (27.57%); followed by Seattle (28.37%); Youngstown, Ohio (31.64%); Syracuse, New York (31.97%), Eugene, Oregon (34.05%); and Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania (34.23%).
The best chance of a clear sky, historically, can be found in Truth or Consequence, New Mexico (89.84); followed by Winslow, Arizona (89.20%); Thermal, California (88.06%); Blythe, California (86.93%); Bishop, California (84.83%); and Lancaster, California (83.99%).
As for locations that are in the path of totality, Winkler, Texas will give you the best bet at seeing the total solar eclipse unobstructed, with a visibility score of 82.16%.
What if I miss the eclipse?
The next total solar eclipse will happen in 2026, but will only be visible from the northern regions of Greenland, Iceland and Spain.
In the U.S., Alaska will be the only state in the path of totality for the 2033 total solar eclipse. If you can’t make it to Alaska, there will be a total solar eclipse visible in 2044 over Western Canada, Montana and North Dakota.
The following year, a total solar eclipse will span the U.S., from Northern California to Cape Canaveral, Florida.
