Solar Eclipse 2024: Clouds, thunderstorms, dust storms likely to obscure sky in these areas. Know in detail

The much-awaited total solar eclipse slated to occur in a large swathe of areas from Southwest to Northeast in the US will be viewed by millions of people. As it will be the last total solar eclipse in the US before 2044, it has created a buzz across the country with airlines, hotels, television channels, the scientific community, and astronomers, gearing for the occasion in their way, the question is- from where it can be viewed best.

Will clouds obscure sky?

To the disappointment of many people, Accuweather has warned that many areas in the eclipse's path are expected to remain covered by clouds, making it difficult to watch this rare astronomical phenomenon. It has also warned that clouds may appear primarily in northwestern Pennsylvania, California and Arizona in the south of both states.

Clouds, thunderstorms expected

Talking to 'The Mirror US', AccuWeather's lead long-range meteorologist Joe Lundberg said that parts of Missouri, Kansas and central and eastern Texas will likely get clouds and thunderstorms. He also warned that Wisconsin, South Dakota, Nebraska and Oregon are also likely to be obscured.

Dust storms expected in great plains

AccuWeather has also said that high winds could cause dust storms in the Great Plains region, and it may further complicate the situation and osbscure the sky. Besides, the Met Office has also warned of severe weather, including thunderstorms and strong winds as well as some tornadoes the weekend of April 6-7.

What is a solar eclipse?

A solar eclipse takes place when the Moon comes between the Sun and the Earth, covers it partially or completely and its shadow falls on Earth. In a total eclipse, the disk of the Sun is fully obscured by the Moon. In partial and annular eclipses, only part of the Sun is obscured. Unlike a lunar eclipse, which may be viewed from anywhere on the night side of Earth, a solar eclipse can only be viewed from a relatively small area of the world.

FAQs:

Why has Met Office warned on solar eclipse in the US?
Accuweather has warned that many areas in the eclipse's path are expected to remain covered by clouds, making it difficult to watch this rare astronomical phenomenon. It has also warned that clouds may appear primarily in northwestern Pennsylvania, California and Arizona in the south of both states.

What is a solar eclipse?
A solar eclipse takes place when the Moon comes between the Sun and the Earth, covers it partially or completely and its shadow falls on Earth.