The article discusses the potential impact of clouds and storms on the total solar eclipse taking place on Monday. Meteorologists are predicting that clouds could obstruct the view of the eclipse for some viewers along its path, which stretches from Mexico through Maine and parts of Canada. Forecasters are closely monitoring the weather conditions, with the Northeastern U.S. appearing to have the best chance of clear skies as of Friday afternoon. However, parts of Ohio, Pennsylvania, New York, Texas, and Mexico may have varying levels of cloud cover that could affect visibility.
Thushari Jayasekara, a physics professor at Southern Illinois University, recalls witnessing the 2017 eclipse from Carbondale, Illinois, where clouds partially obscured the spectacle. While the crowd was disappointed when the eclipse disappeared behind the clouds, they were able to catch a glimpse of the full effect once the clouds parted during totality. Despite the uncertainty surrounding the weather forecast, meteorologists are continuously updating their predictions to provide the most accurate information to eclipse enthusiasts.
While there is a high level of uncertainty surrounding the eclipse weather forecast, viewers can still enjoy the event online if they are unable to witness it in person due to cloudy or rainy conditions. The Associated Press will be providing live coverage of the eclipse from various locations along the path, starting at 10 a.m. EDT. NASA will also be streaming telescope views of the sun on NASA TV starting at 1 p.m. EDT, allowing viewers to experience the eclipse from the comfort of their own homes. Other organizations such as the Exploratorium museum, Time and Date, and Slooh will also be broadcasting eclipse day views for those unable to see it in person.
As storms with severe weather potential are expected after the eclipse from Texas to Arkansas, viewers should also be mindful of potential impacts on homeward travel. Meteorologists are working hard to predict the timing and speed of these storms, as they could influence cloud cover across the country during the eclipse. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s Weather Prediction Center will continue to update the eclipse forecast until Monday, so eclipse enthusiasts are advised to monitor weather forecasts over the weekend and keep their plans flexible to ensure the best viewing experience possible.
