‘Ring of Fire’ Solar Eclipse: When, Where and How to View it in October
After months of anticipation, the highly-anticipated “ring of fire” solar eclipse will finally be visible in the skies over the United States this Saturday, October 14th. However, many eager skywatchers may be wondering if the weather will cooperate for optimal eclipse viewing.
According to AccuWeather senior meteorologist Brett Anderson, those along the eclipse’s path of “annularity,” particularly in the Southwest, can expect a “pretty good” weather forecast for Saturday. However, individuals in the Pacific Northwest, where the eclipse will begin, may face cloudy skies that could disrupt their view.
NASA has stated that, weather permitting, the annular eclipse will be visible in states such as Oregon, Nevada, Utah, New Mexico, and Texas, as well as select parts of California, Idaho, Colorado, and Arizona.
Ari Sarsalari, a meteorologist from Weather.com, explains that a storm system approaching the Pacific Northwest may lead to significant cloud cover in states such as Oregon and northern California, making eclipse viewing challenging there. However, he assures that individuals in the Rockies and the Southwest should still have a clear view of the eclipse, with only spotty clouds in those areas. The southern Plains, which includes Texas, is expected to have excellent visibility.
For those anticipating a partial eclipse, the eastern half of the United States may face challenges due to heavy cloud cover caused by a significant storm system. Sarsalari predicts “plenty of clouds and rain from parts of the Great Lakes all the way through the Eastern Seaboard into the Southeast.”
Despite potential cloud cover, University of Oregon astronomy professor Scott Fisher explains that the effect of the eclipse will still be perceptible, depending on the thickness of the clouds. Even with thin clouds or morning fog, observers may still witness the moon moving in front of the sun and experience the elusive “ring of fire” effect. However, thick rainy clouds may only result in a darkening of the sky as the moon passes in front of the sun.
It’s important to note that proper safety eyewear must be worn to protect your eyes during any partial or annular eclipse. Chris Sirola, an astronomer at the University of Southern Mississippi, emphasizes that under no circumstances should anyone look at the eclipse without glasses equipped with special lenses specifically designed for eclipse-viewing.
The majority of the United States will have the opportunity to view a portion of the eclipse in some form. It is recommended to check the October 2023 solar eclipse map to see the percentage of the sun’s area covered by the moon during the event.
So, mark your calendars for Saturday, October 14th, and make sure to have your eclipse glasses ready for an unforgettable celestial experience.