Chicago, Illinois – The total solar eclipse set to occur on Monday in the United States has captured the attention of skywatchers across the country. The weather forecast for the eclipse is now becoming clearer, with some regions expected to experience cloudy and rainy conditions while others may witness optimal viewing conditions.
According to experts, the eclipse will begin on Monday, with the duration of the event varying depending on the location. From the Pacific Northwest to the Rio Grande Valley in Texas, the moon will block out the sun for approximately 1 hour and 40 minutes to 2 hours and 40 minutes. This will mark the first total solar eclipse visible over the mainland U.S. since August 21, 2017.
A 115-mile-wide path of totality spanning across 15 states from Texas to northern Maine will offer viewers the opportunity to witness the total eclipse, with the moon fully covering the sun for about three to four minutes during the peak of the event. Additionally, the rest of the Lower 48 states, as well as several other regions including Canada, Mexico, and Central America, will experience a partial eclipse.
In terms of weather expectations, parts of the southern and central U.S., particularly along the western Gulf Coast and Deep South, are likely to see rain on Monday. Areas such as eastern Texas, Louisiana, Mississippi, Alabama, and Tennessee may also experience a chance of severe storms, as predicted by NOAA’s Storm Prediction Center.
Other regions, such as the Eastern Seaboard from Maine to the Carolinas, may have less cloud cover on Monday, potentially providing ideal conditions for viewing the eclipse. However, some uncertainty remains regarding viewing conditions in parts of the Midwest and central Plains.
Following Monday’s event, the next total solar eclipse visible from the Lower 48 states is not expected until August 23, 2044. As skywatchers eagerly await the upcoming eclipse, preparations are underway to ensure a safe and enjoyable viewing experience for all.