The upcoming total solar eclipse on Monday may be obstructed by clouds rather than the moon for some viewers along the eclipse’s path. Meteorologists predict that storms moving across the central U.S. could create cloudy conditions in areas where the eclipse will be visible, stretching from Mexico and Texas to Maine and parts of Canada. However, there is still some uncertainty in the forecast, with the Northeastern U.S. and parts of Canada potentially having the best chance of clear skies on eclipse day.
Parts of Ohio, Pennsylvania, New York, and Texas may have questionable viewing conditions, while Mexico could experience low to mid-level cloud cover. The forecast remains highly uncertain due to the storms affecting the country, making it challenging for meteorologists to predict the exact locations and timing of cloud cover. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s Weather Prediction Center will provide daily updates on the eclipse forecast leading up to Monday.
In 2017, some eclipse viewers, like physics professor Thushari Jayasekara at Southern Illinois University, experienced the eclipse partially obscured by clouds. Despite missing out on the spectacle during the initial phase, the clouds parted during totality, allowing for a brief glimpse of the full effect. Eclipse enthusiasts are advised to monitor weather forecasts over the weekend and keep their plans flexible, as conditions may change rapidly leading up to the event.
In the event that the solar eclipse is obscured by clouds or rained out for viewers along the path, there are still ways to watch the event. Eclipse enthusiasts can follow live coverage online, with Associated Press journalists providing updates from various locations along the path. NASA will also be streaming telescope views of the sun on NASA TV starting at 1 p.m. EDT, and other platforms like the Exploratorium museum, Time and Date, and Slooh will broadcast eclipse day views for those unable to witness it in person.
Overall, while the eclipse forecast remains uncertain due to the stormy conditions affecting the country, viewers along the path are advised to stay informed on the latest weather updates and be prepared for potential changes in viewing conditions. Whether the eclipse is visible or not, there are options available to experience the event through live online coverage provided by various sources.
