New Weather Concerns Arise for Eclipse Enthusiasts Beyond Clouds
As the eagerly awaited total solar eclipse draws near, a fresh weather challenge looms on the horizon. Forecasters now warn of a new storm threat that could impact Monday's celestial event.
The total solar eclipse that everyone has been looking forward to is almost here, but there is a new twist in the forecast for Monday's event.
There is a chance of severe thunderstorms in certain areas of the Southern Plains and Lower Mississippi Valley, including along the path where the eclipse will be visible. These storms might block the view for some people, but the main concern is the potential risks they may pose for those traveling after the eclipse.
Totality, where the moon completely covers the sun, will be visible along a path over 100 miles wide from Texas to Maine. This path will pass through cities such as Dallas, Indianapolis, Cleveland, and Buffalo, New York.
According to the Storm Prediction Center, parts of Texas (including Dallas), Oklahoma, Arkansas, and Louisiana are at a higher risk of severe thunderstorms on Monday. The evening hours especially pose a threat of damaging winds, hail, heavy rain, and even the possibility of a tornado.
CNN Weather
Severe thunderstorms in the southern US usually form in the afternoon when the temperature is at its highest and the sky is mostly clear.
This means that there is a chance that any severe storms may not occur until later, allowing eclipse-watchers in the area to have a good view of the phenomenon between 1:30 to 2:00 p.m. CDT.
Anyone who found themselves stuck in post-eclipse traffic on Monday afternoon or evening in northeastern Texas, southern Oklahoma, southwest Arkansas, and northwest Louisiana may have been exposed to potentially severe thunderstorms.
People watch the annular solar eclipse at the Luis Enrique Erro Planetarium of the National Polytechnic Institute (IPN) in Mexico City on October 14, 2023. Skygazers across the Americas turned their faces upwards Saturday for a rare celestial event: an annular solar eclipse.
Skygazers across the Americas gathered at the Luis Enrique Erro Planetarium of the National Polytechnic Institute (IPN) in Mexico City on October 14, 2023 to witness a rare celestial event: an annular solar eclipse. People were excited to watch as the moon passed in front of the sun, creating a stunning ring of light in the sky.
Alfredo Estrella/AFP/Getty Images
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An estimated 20 million people in the US traveled to another city to view 2017’s total solar eclipse and there was a significant increase in traffic risks as a result, a recent study found. Millions more are expected to travel for Monday’s eclipse as the path of totality will be 40 to 50 miles wider than 2017’s path.
Unfortunately, the current cloud forecast isn’t ideal for other locations in the path of totality.
It's still a bit too soon to predict the exact time and location of cloud formation on Monday. However, as the event approaches, we are getting a clearer picture of the overall weather patterns.
The storm system that is causing the severe weather threat on Monday may also bring moist air from the Gulf of Mexico up north to the Tennessee and Ohio valleys. This could result in more clouds forming in these areas, potentially blocking views of the totality.
CNN Weather
CNN Weather
Two forecast models show where clouds could be during the eclipse Monday afternoon. This forecast could shift in the coming days as new weather information becomes available.
CNN Weather
In the Northeast, there is a possibility of high pressure and clear skies during the upcoming eclipse, which could provide ideal conditions for viewing the totality.
It is important to note that cloud forecasts may change as the movement of storms and air masses this week can greatly impact where clouds will form next week. More accurate predictions regarding cloud cover with increased confidence levels are expected to be available by this weekend.
The current forecast for April 8 is quite surprising as it differs greatly from historical cloud cover data.
According to past data, the Southern Plains have traditionally had the highest likelihood of clear skies on April 8, while the Northeast has typically had one of the lowest chances.
Will this plot twist from Mother Nature pan out? Anyone hoping to glimpse the eclipse will need to keep a close eye on the forecast in coming days.
Editor's P/S:
The upcoming total solar eclipse is generating excitement, but a recent forecast has introduced a twist with the possibility of severe thunderstorms in certain areas along the eclipse's path. This presents a potential obstacle for eclipse enthusiasts and raises concerns about risks for travelers returning home after the event. It is important to monitor the forecast closely as cloud cover and weather patterns can evolve, potentially impacting visibility and safety.
The article emphasizes the unpredictable nature of weather and the need to stay informed as the eclipse approaches. It also highlights the importance of preparedness, considering the potential for severe weather and the increased traffic expected on the day of the eclipse. By staying up-to-date with the latest forecasts and making necessary adjustments, eclipse watchers can ensure a safe and enjoyable experience while witnessing this celestial phenomenon.
