COLUMBUS, Ohio (WCMH) — As a rare total solar eclipse looms for a portion of the U.S. and even schools look to close early for it, enthusiasts are looking for the best spot to soak up the lack of sun.
The moon is set to obstruct the sun, casting a shadow on the Earth, on April 8. Forecasters predict the phenomenon will last for just up to four minutes and 28 seconds, and could have some impact on weather as well. The eclipse could last twice as long as the previous eclipse in 2017.
Certain parts of central Ohio will be better for viewing the eclipse than others. View the map below to see where the sun will be fully covered in Ohio, or type in the name of a town to check its specific coverage level.
Click here for a map that shows the national coverage levels for the U.S. as a whole. The eclipse can only be safely viewed with specialized eye protection, due to the potential for eclipse blindness or retinal burns. This kind of eye damage could be temporary or permanent.
While the 2024 eclipse is happening in relatively close timing with a previous one in 2017, current predictions suggest the U.S. won’t see another eclipse until 2099.