2024 Total Solar Eclipse
Updates
Update at 2:30 pm on Monday, April 8
Wellington Rotary Beach has reached full capacity on Monday, April 8 and is now closed to vehicles.
Parking is still available at the Wellington and District Community Centre (111 Belleville Street) and the Wellington ball diamonds along Niles Street. Washroom facilities are open at the WDCC and the Wellington ball diamonds.
- Drivers are advised to use caution when travelling in the area of Wellington Rotary Beach.
- Reduce speed and watch for pedestrians.
- Respect no parking zones and do not block roads or access points.
Update at 1:30 pm on Monday, April 8
The Emergency Control Group continues to the monitor and is ready to respond where necessary to the total solar eclipse.
Vehicle and pedestrian traffic are slightly higher in Picton and Wellington, similar to a busy summer weekend.
Washrooms across the County in municipal parks and playground areas are open for use as they would be in the summer.
As we near the start of the partial eclipse at 2:08 pm, here are some safety tips to keep in mind if you are travelling:
- Turn your headlights on
- Watch for pedestrians and other hazards on the road
- Don’t wear your eclipse glasses while driving
- Pull over if you want to observe the eclipse. Respect no parking zones and do not block roads or access points.
Background
On Monday, April 8, 2024, the County of Prince Edward will experience a total solar eclipse. This rare celestial event occurs when the Moon passes between the Sun and the Earth, casting a shadow and creating complete darkness across Prince Edward County.
Safety Reminder: NEVER look directly at the Sun through binoculars, a telescope, or with your unaided eye. Looking at the sun without proper safety filters can cause permanent eye damage.
What is a total solar eclipse?
How can I safely view the eclipse?
It is not safe to look at the sun without approved eye protection, especially during an eclipse. Regular sunglasses will not protect your eyes. Looking at even a small sliver before or after the eclipse without proper eye protection can be harmful to your vision. Your retinas do not have pain sensors to signal damage from staring at the sun.
Symptoms may only surface 12 to 48 hours later and could involve retinal burns, blurred vision, and temporary or permanent vision loss. Unfortunately, once symptoms start, it is usually too late to reverse any damage.
If you want to look at the eclipse indirectly, use only safe solar eclipse glasses, viewers, or filters from reputable vendors that meet international safety standard ISO 12312-2. The manufacturer’s name and address must be printed on the product.
How long will the eclipse last?
In Prince Edward County on April 8, the event will occur over several different phases:
- Start of partial eclipse: 2:08 pm
- Start of total eclipse: 3:21 pm
- Maximum eclipse: 3:22 pm
- End of total eclipse: 3:24 pm
- End of partial eclipse: 4:33 pm
Impact to the area
During the solar eclipse, you can expect several notable changes in your surroundings:
- A gradual dimming of natural light as the moon partially obscures the sun
- A temporary drop in temperature as the Sun’s heat is partially blocked by the Moon’s shadow
- Potential changes in wildlife behaviour, such as birds roosting or animals becoming more active due to the sudden darkness
- Potential increase in visitors from outside of Prince Edward County, which could impact travel and telecommunications networks. Learn more about how the municipality is planning for the increase in visitors to the County.
Frequently asked questions
When buying your solar eclipse glasses, it is important to only use reputable sellers. NASA and Discover the Universe has a listing of trusted suppliers:
Discover the Universe Eclipse Resources
NASA’s recommended suppliers of safe solar viewers and filters
Looking at even a small sliver of the Sun without eye protection before or after the eclipse can be harmful to your vision. Eyes do not have pain receptors, so it is difficult to know that injury to the eyes is occurring.
Health impacts may include:
- Retinal burns
- Blurred vision
- Loss of eyesight (immediate or delayed onset)
If you or someone you love experiences these or any other health emergencies, seek medical attention immediately.
To make the most of this rare event, it is essential to plan your eclipse viewing in advance:
- Identify a safe and unobstructed location with a clear view of the sky in the path of totality. Do not trespass on private property.
- Respect no parking zones and do not block roads or access points.
- Consider parks, open fields, or elevated areas away from tall buildings or trees. Be mindful of your surroundings and avoid disturbing wildlife or plants in the area where you choose to view the eclipse.
- Arrive at your chosen viewing spot well ahead of time to set up equipment and get comfortable.
- Bring along essential supplies such as water, snacks, chairs or blankets, and any equipment you’ll need for viewing or photography.
Capturing the beauty of a solar eclipse can be a memorable experience, but it requires caution and proper equipment:
- Use a solar filter on your camera lens to protect your camera’s sensor from damage.
- Experiment with different camera settings to achieve the best results, such as adjusting exposure and focus.
- Consider using a tripod to keep your camera stable during long exposures.
- Practice taking photos of the Sun before the eclipse to familiarize yourself with your equipment and settings.
Live coverage of the Total Solar Eclipse will be available on the local community television station, YourTV (Cogeco) Quinte.
The live broadcast will take place in Niagara Falls and will air between 2 pm – 4 pm. Click here for more information on the broadcast.