The solar eclipse show on Monday may be a bit obscured as meteorologists are expecting different levels of cloud cover.
Brian Hutton Jr., a meteorologist at TribLive news partner WTAE, said that they expect partly to mostly cloudy skies during the eclipse on Monday. There are still some uncertainties about the thickness of the clouds and the possibility of some sunshine before totality, but clouds will be present.
The Pittsburgh region will have a partial solar eclipse with 95% totality at around 3:15 p.m. Meanwhile, those in Erie to the north will witness a total solar eclipse.
Matthew Kramar, a meteorologist at the National Weather Service’s Pittsburgh office, mentioned that it is not very likely for the skies to be clear on Monday. However, he also indicated that it's unlikely for the sun and moon to be completely hidden.
Matthew Kramar also highlighted that there is a low chance of complete overcast conditions as well as clear skies. It's probable that there will be some clouds.
There is still a good deal of uncertainty in the cloud cover forecast for the solar eclipse. Glass half full: there is a low probability skies will be completely overcast. Glass half empty: there is a low probability skies will be completely clear. pic.twitter.com/Ci8Wm2UJ9e
— NWS Pittsburgh (@NWSPittsburgh) April 5, 2024
Matthew Kramar added that there is a 20% chance of rain showers throughout Monday, with temperatures ranging around 60.
Shannon Hesseran, another meteorologist at the National Weather Service’s Pittsburgh office, mentioned that having cloud cover is common for the city.
Shannon Hesseran explained that if there are no clouds, there is a better opportunity to see something. However, being in a cloudy Great Lakes area means that it's not always ideal, depending on the direction of the wind across the lake, which brings clouds into the area. She pointed out that Pittsburgh is one of the cloudiest cities in America.
She also stated that unlike precipitation, cloud cover is likely to change from minute to minute, with clouds clearing up and then quickly returning.
Leading up to the event, the weather should be pleasant with a low chance of precipitation and a relatively sunny sky.
Kramar mentioned that the day will start cold on Sunday, likely below freezing, but temperatures will rise to the upper 50s in most areas, with some reaching 60.
More on the eclipse
• How to take professional photos of the solar eclipse
• Chickens may perch, but dogs and cats are likely to be unconcerned during the solar eclipse
• Education about the eclipse: Schools in Western Pennsylvania make plans for the astronomical event day
• Click here for more eclipse stories and information
Despite the expected presence of clouds on Monday, Hutton emphasized that it’s never safe to look directly at the sun without eye protection.
Even if it's cloudy, you still need eclipse glasses to look at the eclipse, just like on a regular day with clouds. Directly looking at the sun, even for a short period, can cause permanent damage to your eyes.
