San Antonio is gearing up for a celestial event that's out of this world. The city will be near the path of the next total solar eclipse set to darken skies on April 8, 2024, a rare spectacle that won't be seen from the contiguous United States for another 20 years, NASA has confirmed. This astronomic occasion occurs when the Moon slips between the Sun and Earth, fully obscuring the Sun's face for those lucky enough to be in the path of totality.
The northwest side of San Antonio is expected to plunge into darkness, but even those who don't catch the full blackout are planning to soak up the eerie midday twilight within the city, or trek to spots like the Hill Country for an unfiltered experience. The partial eclipse will initiate at 12:14 p.m., with totality occurring between 1:32 p.m. and 1:36 p.m., and finally, the partial eclipse will cease at 2:55 p.m., the City of San Antonio's website advises.
In anticipation of the eclipse, officials are urging San Antonians to prioritize safety. They recommend using ISO 12312-2 certified eclipse glasses and strictly advise against the use of regular sunglasses or unfiltered cameras, telescopes, binoculars, and other optical devices for direct solar viewing. The city's announcement also includes traffic warnings, suggesting people adjust their travel plans accordingly to account for potential congestion.
Pet owners should be on the lookout for signs of distress in their furry companions, such as excessive panting, hiding, or pacing. A curious silence from birds and insects could heighten other noises, potentially causing pets to exhibit nighttime behaviors in the middle of the day. As a comfort, the city suggests providing pets with familiar toys or treats and a secure indoor retreat.
For those keen on snagging a pair of eclipse glasses, some may still be available at local libraries, senior, and community centers. Any changes to school or work schedules in anticipation of the eclipse should be checked in advance, and residents are encouraged to stay informed via local news media or San Antonio’s 2024 Solar Eclipse Events page. For emergencies, the number to call is 9-1-1, while other information can be accessed through 3-1-1 or 210-207-6000. To stay updated on the go, one can receive alerts by texting COSAGOV to 73224, and check road conditions at TXDOT's website DriveTexas.org.
