People have waited 99 years for the solar eclipse that will occur on Monday, August 21. Millions of people across the United States are preparing to watch this phenomenon. This includes children as well as adults. Even though the total eclipse will be seen in only 14 states, people in the other states will be able to see a partial eclipse. While the main attraction will be in the sky, people on land are warned to be careful because there are several things that could go wrong, according to The Washington Post.
Protect your eyes
The most serious warning is to protect your eyes by not looking directly at the sun at the time of the eclipse in your area.
In order to see the eclipse and to protect your eyes at the same time, it has been suggested that you wear special glasses that were made for that use. Sunglasses are not safe for the viewing. If you are not wearing protective glasses, it takes only about a minute and a half for eyes to become damaged if someone looks at the sun. There have been reports of people whose eyes have been permanently damaged because they did not believe it could happen to them.
Not only could your eyes be damaged during the eclipse, but your camera could also be damaged. The sun's rays are too powerful for your camera. Of course, it depends on the type of camera you use.
Mother Nature
In order to get the best view, the sky must be clear and not cloudy.
However, you have no control over how clear or cloudy the sky will be. Unless Mother Nature cooperates, you just might miss the eclipse. It will still happen if there is rain or if the sky is cloudy. People just won't be able to see it when it happens.
The smoke from wildfires might make it impossible for the eclipse to be seen.
It starts in Oregon, and this so happens to be wildfire season. There are several fires burning now, and it has not determined how much the smoke will impact the wonderful sight.
Be careful driving
It will be dangerous to drive to the path and during the eclipse because of heavy traffic that will be on the highway. The roads will be jam packed with vehicles driven by people who are rushing to a viewing site.
It has been estimated that 12.25 million people live where the totality will hit. An additional 7.4 million people could travel there. Small towns and parks not used to having much traffic will have a lot of congestion.
The August 21 total eclipse will be a great experience for those who use caution and are extra careful for themselves and their families. The last total eclipse was on June 8, 1918, and the next one will be on April 8, 2024.