Weather forecasting models suggest that significant cloud cover could obscure the solar eclipse for many in the UK on Wednesday evening, potentially causing millions to miss the rare celestial event.
First near-total eclipse since 1999
Wednesday evening will mark the first time since 1999 that people in the UK and Ireland will see 90-96% of the Sun covered by the Moon. It will also be the last chance to witness such an event until 2081.
The eclipse is expected to start at around 6pm, peak shortly after 7pm, and end at around 8pm, although exact times vary depending on location.
Cloud cover projections
The GFS weather model currently projects significant cloud cover in Northern Ireland, Scotland, the far north of England, some eastern areas, the Midlands, and parts of North Wales for 7pm on Wednesday.
In Northern Ireland, cloud cover may vary from 80-100%. Similar totals are projected over most of Scotland, although clearer skies may come in the far north. Some English counties such as Cumbria, Northumberland, Durham, and Lincolnshire may also see 80-100% cloud coverage at 7pm.
What to expect even with clouds
Despite the clouds, the eclipse will still be noticeable. Patricia Reiff, a professor of physics and astronomy at Rice University who has seen 20 eclipses, previously told Time Magazine: "If you are under the clouds, it’s still going to get dark.
"If clouds are present, the eclipse will still be evident and it should still be incredible to experience, with a dramatic change in the atmosphere when the daylight darkens to night."
She added: "The temperature noticeably drops, and with it, birds and other typically vocal wildlife become quiet, changing to their nighttime behaviour. It’s intriguingly eerie and a unique event to witness."
