We’re just days away from a solar eclipse, which will be apparent in parts of the United States as the moon blocks out sunlight.
Milwaukee and Wisconsin are not in the path of a total eclipse and will only experience a partial solar eclipse, during which the Moon covers only part of the Sun. However, a gloomy forecast caused by the development of a low pressure system to the west may make it arduous for Wisconsinites to see some of the best views of the eclipse.
Some states in the path of totality, such as Texas and Oklahoma, are also forecast to experience gloomy and rainy conditions. If you want to plan a last-minute trip to look for clear skies during the total solar eclipse, here are some locations with the brightest conditions closest to Milwaukee:
Where are you most likely to see a total solar eclipse clearly?
According to researchers, clear skies in the path of totality are most likely to occur in northern New England and upstate New York National Weather Service. As of Thursday, the NWS is looking increasingly likely to have bright conditions from southern Missouri to central Indiana.
Which city in Milwaukee is the closest to diving to see clear skies during a full solar eclipse?
Indianapolis, located in central Indiana, will witness a total solar eclipse on April 8 at 3:06 p.m. Indianapolis is the largest city Wisconsinites can travel to that will experience a total solar eclipse. From Milwaukee to Indianapolis, it takes about four hours and 15 minutes.
The National Weather Service predicts clear skies will be seen more often over Indianapolis and central Indiana. Clouds may still occur in northern and southern Indiana. Indianapolis hosts several events for visitors who want to view the solar eclipse. More information can be found on their website at www.visitindy.com/events/eclipse/.
Which states will have gloomy skies and thunderstorms during a full solar eclipse?
According to the NWS, Texas, Oklahoma, Arkansas, Ohio, northwestern Pennsylvania and western New York may experience scattered rain showers near the path of totality during the solar eclipse. Thunderstorms are also likely Monday evening and Tuesday across the south-central United States. The NWS says severe weather and flash flooding are possible and could result in hazardous travel conditions after the eclipse.
Solar eclipse day events in the Milwaukee area:
Even if the weather ruins your eclipse plans, you can still celebrate this uncommon astronomical occasion with these indoor or virtual events in the Milwaukee area:
- UW-Milwaukee: UWM will offer indoor activities, including a live broadcast of the total solar eclipse, free pizza, a photo booth and photo station, and a variety of astronomy-themed artwork, in the Union Ballroom on Monday from 1 to 3 p.m. Weather permitting, there will also be outdoor eclipse viewing and other activities. More: Solar eclipse viewing party | Manfred Olson Planetarium.
- Milwaukee Public Museum: MPM will stream NASA live webcast total solar eclipse, and in case of bad weather, educational classes are planned indoors. There are also plans for outdoor shows and attractions. Monday, 12:30 to 15:00 More: Solar Eclipse Watch 2024 | Milwaukee Public Museum.
- Brookfield Public Library: The library will host a free live NASA webcast in the community room. Monday, 12:30 to 15:30 More:Brookfield Public Library • Solar Eclipse Broadcast.
RELATED:When will the next total solar eclipse occur in Wisconsin after 2024?
Reporter Claire Reid contributed to this report.
