Eclipse Countdown Begins: Weather Threatens to Spoil View

Severe weather threatens to ruin solar eclipse in Texas, Oklahoma, Louisiana, and Arkansas, with hail, tornadoes, and high winds forecasted.

The solar eclipse on Monday faced threats from cloud cover and severe weather in Texas, Oklahoma, Louisiana, and Arkansas, potentially impacting thousands of eager spectators. Meteorologists warned of "softball-sized" hail, isolated tornadoes, and strong wind gusts reaching 60 mph in some areas.

NBC News meteorologist Kathryn Prociv delivered a grim forecast, but noted a silver lining for eclipse travelers. The worst storms were predicted to hit just after the eclipse between 1:30 and 2:00 p.m. local time. However, severe weather from Dallas to Fayetteville, Arkansas, was expected to persist from 3 p.m. onwards.

Federal forecasters cautioned against outdoor activities post-eclipse due to safety concerns. The National Weather Service projected severe weather to start as early as 1 p.m. with potential large hail in the totality zone. Local TV meteorologists also warned of significant cloud cover potentially obstructing views of the eclipse.

Eclipse chasers who invested in hotel rooms in small towns across the totality path faced high occupancy rates. Poplar Bluff, Missouri, saw a surge in bookings, with over 90% of rooms filled compared to 8% in 2023. Hotel prices in cities like Austin, Dallas, and Buffalo were significantly higher than the previous year.

Millions outside the totality path, including New York City and Chicago, could still witness an 85% eclipse. Darkness lasting up to two hours was expected, with total darkness lasting 3.5 to 4 minutes in the totality path. The eclipse's progression was mapped out, starting in Texas and moving northeast towards Burlington, Vermont.

Scientist Bill Nye planned to watch the eclipse in Fredericksburg, Texas, despite the forecast. He emphasized the uniqueness of Earth experiencing total eclipses and urged viewers to appreciate the phenomenon. Nye also reminded the public to use proper eye protection, as staring directly at the eclipse could cause permanent damage.

Political figures like Joe Biden issued warnings against unsafe viewing practices, referencing Trump's past eclipse gaffe. Biden's PSA stressed the importance of protective eyewear to safely observe the eclipse. As spectators awaited the celestial event, the unpredictable weather added an element of uncertainty to the highly anticipated experience.