Hello Ward 8 Neighbours,
The City of Hamilton is offering tips and advice as the City prepares for the solar eclipse on Monday, April 8th.
For more details, please continue reading below…
On Monday, April 8, 2024, the City of Hamilton will be in the path of a total solar eclipse. From approximately 2 pm to 4:30 pm, Hamilton will be in “the path of totality,” where the sun appears to be entirely covered by the moon for a short period.
People in the path of totality will be able to see sun features generally not visible during this period. Another total eclipse will not be seen in Hamilton for another 120 years.
With Hamilton being one of the few communities in Southern Ontario in the path of totality, we expect that the number of people in Hamilton will increase to view the eclipse, resulting in more traffic, distraction, and congestion, increasing the risk for motor vehicle accidents.
The City’s Tourism & Culture Division has designated viewing sites for visitors. The preferred viewing sites were selected for visitors to Hamilton based on their capacity to accommodate large crowds, accessibility features, availability of amenities, and suitability for eclipse viewing. We encourage Hamiltonians to experience the eclipse from their homes.
Viewing this event is weather-dependent, and the eclipse will not be viewable if cloud cover is present.
Safety Information
- Even though the moon is blocking the sun, looking at the eclipse is still very dangerous and can cause temporary or permanent damage to your eyes.
- It is not safe to look at the sun without approved eye protection. Viewing glasses that meet the international standard ISO 12312-2 are considered safe for viewing an eclipse. Ensure that eclipse glasses fully cover your field of vision. Regular sunglasses will not protect people’s eyes.
- Free ISO 12312-2 glasses are available to the public at the Tourism Hamilton Visitor Experience Centre, Hamilton Public Library locations, Civic Museums and all Recreation Centres excluding Jimmy Thompson Pool and Sir Wilfred Laurier Recreation Centre. Glasses are available only while supplies last.
If you are driving during the eclipse: - Be aware of pedestrians, particularly those who may be distracted by the eclipse.
- Give extra time for travel to activities.
- Do not look at the sun or try to take photos while driving.
- Do not stop your vehicle to view the eclipse.
Children should always be supervised during eclipses as they may not fully comprehend the risks involved.
If appropriate eye protection is not available, alternate viewing strategies should be considered, such as an eclipse box or a LiveStream.
If you are experiencing blindness after viewing the eclipse (immediate or delayed), seek emergency care immediately.
Be aware of pedestrians, particularly those who may be distracted by the eclipse.
Give extra time for travel to activities.
Do not look at the sun or try to take photos while driving.
Do not stop your vehicle to view the eclipse.
Questions or concerns?
If you have any questions or concerns, you can contact our office here.