Photo of Path of Totality with Credit to NASA
Belleville will experience a total solar eclipse on April 8, 2024! In order to safely experience this incredible once-in-a-lifetime event, there are some things you should know.
What does this mean?
A solar eclipse occurs when the moon passes between the sun and the earth, temporarily blocking the sun’s light.
Belleville will be in the ‘path of totality’ for the upcoming eclipse, meaning that the moon will completely block the face of the sun resulting in a period of complete darkness in the region, as if it were dusk or nighttime.
The full solar eclipse is set to take place between 2:08 and 4:33 p.m. in Belleville with period of totality (when the moon will completely block the sun) to occur is between 3:21 and 3:23 p.m.
It is important to NEVER look directly or indirectly at the sun throughout the duration of the eclipse. Looking at even a small sliver before or after the eclipse without proper safety eyewear can be harmful to your vision. Health impacts may include retinal burns, blurred vision, and loss of eyesight (immediate or delayed onset). Regular sunglasses, no matter how dark, are not safe. In the event you do experience adverse reactions from the eclipse, please contact your eye care physician or Health 8-1-1.
How can I prepare?
There are a number of ways you can ensure you are ready for the total solar eclipse.
Make sure you have proper ISO certified solar eclipse glasses from a reputable vendor or a safe handheld solar viewer. Check out Helpful Resources section below for a list of solar eclipse glasses vendors and solar viewer resources.
Plan your viewing location in a safe, unobstructed area, close to your home. Please avoid areas near fast-moving water, dams or other hazards.
Ensuring you have taken care of any errands ahead of time (grocery shopping, etc.) to avoid potential traffic caused by an influx of visitors who may be coming to the city on the day.
- Consider downloading the What3Words app if you plan to view the event somewhere where it may be difficult to describe your location. This could help emergency services locate you should you need assistance.
Helpful Resources
| Solar Eclipse Glasses & Viewers |
| Safety Tips |
| Accessibility Tools |
| Other Valuable Resources |
Source: https://www.belleville.ca/en/news/2024-solar-eclipse.aspx