Western New York Already Preparing For 2024 Total Eclipse

We are just over a year away from a total eclipse here in Western New York, but work on preparing for the event has already begun.

Scientists are predicting that Western New York will be one of the best sites in the United States to see the total eclipse in 2024.

WHAT IS A TOTAL ECLIPSE?

A total eclipse of the sun happens when the moon lines up perfectly to block the sun from the viewers on Earth.

HOW OFTEN DO TOTAL ECLIPSES HAPPEN?

Not very often. According to NASA, next year's (April 8th, 2024) total eclipse of the sun will be the last one visible in the contiguous United States until 2044. If you travel around the planet, you would have more chances to see a total eclipse. If you can travel, total eclipses of the sun happen around every 18 months.

WHAT HAPPENS WHEN THERE IS A TOTAL ECLIPSE OF THE SUN?

If you are in an area where a total eclipse of the sun is taking place, the sky will darken and it will look and feel like nighttime as the moon passes through the viewing area between you and the sun.

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HOW DO I SAFELY WATCH A TOTAL ECLIPSE OF THE SUN?

You need to wear special "Eclipse" glasses or use a safe handheld solar viewer. Safe solar glasses and viewers are thousands of times darker than regular sunglasses and comply with international standards.

You should NEVER look at the Sun during an eclipse, or anytime, through a camera lens, telescope, binoculars, or any other optical device, even if you are wearing eclipse glasses or using a handheld solar viewer.  The concentrated solar rays can burn through the filter and cause serious eye injuries.

WHAT IS WESTERN NEW YORK DOING TO PREPARE FOR THE ECLIPSE?

Erie County Executive Mark Poloncarz announced that area leaders have already met to discuss plans to handle an increase in tourism and how to allow the most people to safely view the total eclipse of the sun. They also created a website with information and safety materials for people to use. Check it out HERE.