City of San Antonio encourages safety for upcoming eclipse

Published on March 27, 2024

SAN ANTONIO (March 27, 2024) - On Monday, April 8, 2024, San Antonio will be near the path of the total solar eclipse. According to the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA), a total solar eclipse happens when the Moon passes between the Sun and Earth, completely blocking the face of the Sun. People viewing the eclipse from locations where the Moon’s shadow completely covers the Sun – known as the path of totality – will experience a total solar eclipse. It will be the last total solar eclipse visible from the contiguous United States until 2044.

While the far northwest side of San Antonio will be the only part of the city in totality, many are still planning to view the eclipse within the city or travel to areas like the Hill Country for the total eclipse experience. For San Antonio, the partial eclipse will begin at 12:14 p.m., totality being from 1:32-1:36 p.m., and the partial eclipse will end at 2:55 p.m.

As San Antonio prepares for this eclipse, everyone is encouraged to participate safely.

Be Safe

• Have proper eye protection (ISO – 123 certified glasses). Learn more about solar viewing glasses from the American Astronomical Society.
• Do NOT use regular sunglasses to view the eclipse.
• Do NOT look at the sun through a camera lens, telescope, binoculars or any other optical device while wearing eclipse glasses or using a handheld solar viewer.
• Do NOT block streets or first responder vehicles.
• Be sure you are standing in a safe area. Stay out of roadways and be aware of your surroundings when looking up.

Be Prepared

• Check with your school or employer before the eclipse for possible changes or closures.
• Expect heavier traffic. If you are going to travel, leave earlier and allow yourself enough time to travel safely. 
• Solar eclipse glasses are available, while supplies last, at libraries, senior centers, and community centers. Please contact your local center to ask if there are glasses remaining. 

Pet Safety

• Pet parents should be watchful for any growing anxiety from their dog or cat, especially if they have exhibited nervousness around triggers such as fireworks or thunderstorms. 
• Signs of anxiety could include excessive panting, hiding, aggressiveness or pacing. 
• During the eclipse, noises will be heightened due to birds and insects becoming silent. Pets may begin nighttime behaviors as if it’s time for bed. 
• Pet parents can comfort their pets with their favorite toys or treats as well as a safe indoor place to relax.

Resources

• For emergencies, call 9-1-1.
• For information, call 3-1-1 or 210-207-6000. 
• For Texas Department of Transportation (TXDOT) information, visit DriveTexas.org.
• Sign up for alerts by texting COSAGOV to 73224.
• Stay updated with your local news outlets. 
• View San Antonio’s 2024 Solar Eclipse Events page.