Texans are gearing up to witness the celestial spectacle of a total solar eclipse today with anticipation reaching a fever pitch. The cosmic event is a rare occurrence for any given location, happening once every three to four centuries. San Antonio, divided by the path of totality, will see the eclipse start around noon with total darkness enveloping the area for a precious few minutes beginning roughly at 1:30 p.m. — a sight last observed in the city in 1397. The San Antonio Report notes that viewers will need to remove their eclipse glasses during those brief moments of totality to fully take in the event.

While eager eyes look to quickly absorb this encounter with the cosmos, the weather could play spoilsport. Forecasts point to cloudy skies and possible afternoon storms in Texas, which might obscure the view. Despite the gloomy outlook, millions are expected to flock to viewing spots, with events and parties dotting the landscape from Del Rio to Paris, Texas, in hopes of catching a glimpse of totality. As Angela Speck, San Antonio's eclipse expert, stressed in a statement obtained by the San Antonio Report, "Close enough is not good enough. Get into the path of totality."

This astronomical occurrence isn't just drawing locals. Visitors from across the country are descending upon Texas, with economic impacts estimated to reach $1.4 billion in indirect revenue, according to economist Ray Perryman. The Texas Department of Transportation has issued warnings for increased traffic and the need for added caution, especially during the eclipse hours, as reported by the San Antonio Report. Eye safety remains a top concern as well, with medical professionals advising the use of International Organization for Standardization-certified eclipse glasses.

NASA has estimated that some 31.6 million people live along the eclipse's path, stretching from Mexico through Texas and up to the northeast across North America. In Texas, places like the Starry Night RV park in Fort Worth are bustling with activity as eclipse chasers set up camp. Lindsey Kuhn, the park's owner, in a conversation to the BBC, shared the excitement gripping visitors: "It's becoming quite a big deal, people have driven here from all over." The anticipation is palpable regardless of age, with Kuhn relaying her daughter's curiosity about the impending darkness — signaling a collective moment of awe waiting to be shared nationwide.

Across the continent, from Mazatlan, Mexico to New England, the eclipse path is primed to be celebrated with over 100 events hosted by NASA and partner organizations. Even as the US National Weather Service cautions of severe weather potential in regions that might impact visibility and travel plans, as reported by the Yahoo News, communities are prepared to seize this rare moment under the sky — be it through collective celebration or, like in Russellville, Arkansas, where love under a darkened sun will culminate in mass nuptials. For all, this cosmic dance is a reminder of the grandeur above us and the shared human pursuit to momentarily grasp its elusive beauty.