A solar eclipse is going to happen on Monday, April 8 from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. For some cities, like Dallas, Cleveland, Buffalo and Rochester, this will be a full eclipse with stunning changes. Daytime will turn to night and then back to daytime. For New York City, it won't be as dramatic. However, for those prepared, it will be unique sight.

Here's what to expect and how to safely view it. 

For New York City, 90% of the sun will be blocked by the moon's shadow at the maximum of the eclipse. This sounds like a lot, but actually, only a subtle dimming of the sun is expected in our city. Let's talk about what will happen and when.   

Here's a timeline of what happens and when. The first time the eclipse will be visible for New York City is at 2:20 p.m. A small "bite" out of the sun will be visible, but only to those with special protective eye wear. These eclipse glasses can be purchased. Also, many New York City libraries are giving them away for free, while supplies last. For those without glasses, you won't notice any significant change in daylight during the entire event.

The peak of the eclipse will be at 3:20 p.m. for New York City. Eighty-nine percent of the sun will be covered. Those with their eclipse glasses will be able to see this special sight, while everyone else won't really notice any change in the brightness of the sky. At its peak, the sun will look like an orange crescent moon.

In addition to wearing eclipse glasses, remember to not use binoculars or telescopes to view the sun. Fast and permanent eye damage is possible. To get a photo of the eclipse, you put your eclipse glasses over the lens of your camera/phone. 

Outside of New York City, the eclipse will be total instead of partial. This rare occurrence will happen in Dallas, Cleveland, Buffalo and Rochester. Tens of thousands of people are expected to travel to these areas. For these areas, daytime will turn to nighttime and then back to daytime during the eclipse. Note that your pets do not need eclipse glasses as they will not be staring at the sun.

The darknesss will only last a few minutes, but temperatures will fall, street lights will come on. Also, nighttime insects are expected to chirp. Like in our area, everyone is encouraged to wear special eclipse glasses to prevent permanent eye damage. The next total eclipse in our area will be in 2079. 

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