The solar eclipse tomorrow will cause unexpected rush hour darkness so be extra careful driving writes Geraldine Herbert
The solar eclipse tomorrow, beginning at 08.30 GMT Friday, March 20 – which will plunge parts of the country into darkness. This is the first time in 16 years so we have some tips for a enjoying safe solar eclipse experience
1) Keep their eyes firmly on the road as the biggest danger will come from drivers being distracted
2) Don’t forget to use your headlights driving as it is likely to be quite dark during the eclipse
3) If you want to view the eclipse you will need to use special glasses which have a filter to protect your eyes. Do not look directly at the sun. An eclipse makes it easier to do so, but you still risk retinal burns causing significant and sometimes permanent loss of sight. Sunglasses won’t help because they will let through infrared light and burn your retina,
4) Mayo and Donegal are likely to get the best view of the eclipse in the Republic of Ireland
5) The eclipse is likely to last for about 2 hours
6) The weather will also play a crucial role on the day: if it is a bright day, the eclipse will be more dramatic and may therefore be an even greater distraction to motorists.
Geraldine Herbert
19th March, 2015
