As a rare solar eclipse approaches eastern Canada on April 8, several cities in Ontario, Quebec, and New Brunswick are preparing for an influx of sightseers who plan to witness the event in darkness. The eclipse is expected to first hit Ontario just before 2 p.m. EDT and will depart Newfoundland in the evening. With hot spots like Niagara Falls, Kingston, Montreal, and Fredericton experiencing maximum coverage for up to three and a half minutes, local authorities are anticipating crowded roadways and potential traffic congestion.
Fort Erie, Ontario, will have the best sightline for the path of totality, with nearly four minutes of darkness. Hamilton, on the north edge of the path, will see the moon’s shadow before 2:04 p.m. and experience about two minutes of totality at 3:18 p.m. The city has designated several viewing sites, including parks and the Tim Hortons Field. Niagara Falls is also expected to draw in a large number of visitors, with the eclipse reaching totality at 3:18 p.m. for about three and a half minutes.
Kingston, Ontario, will witness the eclipse starting at 2:09 p.m., with totality arriving at 3:22 p.m. for just under three minutes. The city is expecting between 70,000 to 500,000 visitors, and residents have been advised to avoid driving on the day of the eclipse. Montreal will also be on the north edge of totality, with the eclipse reaching total darkness at 3:27 p.m. The city’s Espace pour la Vie and Parc Jean-Drapeau will host up to 80,000 people for the event.
In Fredericton, New Brunswick, the eclipse will begin with a partial phase at 3:23 p.m., with totality occurring at 4:33 p.m. for just over two minutes. Other areas in New Brunswick, such as Woodstock, Florenceville-Bristol, and Miramichi, will also experience 100 percent totality for over three minutes. Provincial and local police services across the regions are preparing for the potential traffic congestion and ensuring public safety during the eclipse viewing events.
With the last solar eclipse in Fort Erie dating back to 1925 and not expected to return until 2144, many people are eager to witness this rare celestial event. Cities like Hamilton, Niagara Falls, Kingston, Montreal, and Fredericton are setting up viewing sites and making necessary preparations to accommodate the anticipated influx of visitors. By taking the necessary precautions and following guidelines provided by authorities, spectators can safely enjoy the unique experience of witnessing a solar eclipse in the path of totality across eastern Canada.
