Experience the Solar Eclipse at 97% totality in Belmont County!

A rare and exciting celestial event is happening this April! On April 8th, 2024, a total solar eclipse will cross over the United States. A solar eclipse occurs when the paths of the Earth, sun, and moon align, creating darkness as the moon blocks the light of the sun for a short period.

Photo of the 2017 Total Solar Eclipse via Flickr

While some parts of Ohio are in the path of totality, in Belmont County we will only see a partial solar eclipse, however, at 97% coverage, it still makes for an interesting and memorable viewing event. You won’t want to miss it; the next total solar eclipse in Ohio isn’t until 2099!

The excitement begins at approximately 1:59 pm in our area and we will see the max totality of 97% at around 3:15 pm. This is the point where it will appear the darkest and the peak time for viewing the eclipse. 

Photo from WTRF 7 News

An important thing to know when viewing the eclipse is you cannot look at it with your bare eyes. You need special glasses to protect your eyes from the sun’s brightness. 

Learn about eclipse safety on April 4th at 4 pm at the St. Clairsville Public Library. Wheeling University’s Challenger Learning Center will host a special program to get you eclipse-ready. Join to learn about the science behind eclipses, and receive a pair of eclipse-viewing glasses before the big day. After you learn how to safely view the eclipse, join Route 40 Lumberjaxe for a viewing party beginning at noon on April 8th!

Need a place to stay before the eclipse? Call and book with Candlewood Suites Eclipse Package and receive special glasses and a moon pie! 

Wherever you are in Ohio on April 8th, make sure to look up at the sky and catch this once-in-a-lifetime event!

For more information, visit https://ema.ohio.gov/media-publications/ohio-total-solar-eclipse