Eclipse spectators across three countries, including the United States, gathered in hopes of witnessing the rare coast-to-coast total solar eclipse that hadn’t been seen in North America in 21 years. The path of the eclipse stretched from Mexico’s Pacific beaches to Canada’s Atlantic shores, passing through 15 U.S. states in between. Those in the path of totality, like Ian Kluft in Mesquite, Texas, were eagerly anticipating the celestial event, which would bring a little over four minutes of daytime darkness as the moon lined up perfectly between Earth and the sun.
In Mesquite, locals like Jorge Martinez were excited to witness history with their families, with Martinez planning to watch the eclipse from home with his wife and 3-year-old daughter. Businesses like Dos Panchas Mexican Restaurant were preparing for an influx of customers, with manager Adrian Martinez hoping for clear skies despite forecasts of possible cloudiness. Nearby in Ennis, Texas, the Range Vintage Trailer Resort was fully booked, with visitors from around the world eager to experience the darkness even if clouds obscured the sun.
Some eclipse enthusiasts, like Chris Lomas from England, were drawn to Texas for the eclipse experience, even if weather conditions were uncertain. In Cleveland, Final Four fans Matt and Sheila Powell were debating whether to drive home to Iowa early Monday in search of clearer skies. Even experienced eclipse professionals, like mapmaker Michael Zeiler, were facing uncertainty about the weather but holding onto hope that they would be able to witness the event with clear skies.
Despite the cloudy forecast in different parts of the country, eclipse spectators remained optimistic and excited for the rare event. In Buffalo, New York, visitors at the Buffalo Naval and Military Park were hopeful for clear skies as they prepared to witness the eclipse. The weather was the hot topic of conversation everywhere, with tourists from different states and countries chatting about their hopes for clear skies to witness the celestial event. The anticipation and excitement were palpable as eclipse enthusiasts prepared for a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
