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The Headline
Well folks, in case you’ve been living under a rock for the past month or so, you probably know that today is the day of the Great American Solar Eclipse!
Today’s forecast is actually looking very favorable for viewing the eclipse, with the exception of some hot and humid temperatures this afternoon so let’s break it down.
Today’s Forecast
South Central Kentucky looks to be really lucking out on viewing the eclipse both with the length of totality as well as the forecast for cloud cover. We expect mostly clear skies with the exception of some high, thin clouds. However our highs will be in the low 90s with, of course, plenty of humidity. That will lead to our heat indices being nearing the 100 degree mark, so if you plan on being outdoors for the eclipse be sure to drink plenty of water and apply sunscreen.
Most models are showing few to little cloud cover across South Central Kentucky during the eclipse, let’s hope that these are the ones that pan out.
What Time is the Eclipse?
In Bowling Green, beginning at 11:58am the beginnings of the eclipse starts. At 1:27pm have your eclipse glasses and viewers ready to go as totality begins for Bowling Green 😎 Totality in Bowling Green will last roughly just under a minute, however the further south you go the longer it lasts.
What is going to happen?
If you are in the path of totality for the total solar eclipse, some cool stuff is going to be happening. The moon is going to completely cover the sun, gradually darkening the daytime skies. Things like stars will be visible, much like the night sky (weather/cloud cover permitting). The Sun’s corona will cast a ring of light around the circumference of the moon, leading to a spectacular sight!
How can I prepare?
In light of the forecast and expected heavy traffic and delays there are some ways to prepare.
- Plan on where you want to view the eclipse, and stay there.
- Leave early, thousands of additional people are expected to be traveling to see the eclipse. Don’t be late or get stuck in traffic, so head out early to avoid any issues.
- Pack sunscreen, plenty of water, plus light and comfortable clothing, your eclipse glasses and maybe a pair of regular sunglasses to wear until the event begins.
- Double and triple check that your eclipse viewers and eye wear are compliant with the ISO 12312-2 international safety standard.
I hope everyone gets a chance to witness history today!
Tuesday/Wednesday Forecast
After today’s exciting solar eclipse, we do have the threat for severe weather on Tuesday across South Central Kentucky.
A stout cold front will bring us a Slight Risk of Severe weather (level 1 out of 5) tomorrow afternoon and evening. This cold front will help to trigger a broken line of showers and thunderstorms with the main threats being damaging winds and heavy rain.
Tomorrow: Partly cloudy and hot with scattered storms in the afternoon, a few could be severe. Highs near 91°F. Overnight, showers and storms tapering off with lows near 70°F.
Wednesday: Early AM showers possible, clearing to partly cloudy skies. Temperatures much cooler with highs near 83°F. Overnight, mostly clear skies with lows near 60°F.
The Decisions
On Tuesday, be sure to be weather aware and have a way to get severe weather warnings. Following @wxornotBG on twitter is a free and great way to stay up to date when the weather is more active.
With the heavy rain possibility, it’s always a pleasant reminder to never drive through flood waters and flooded roadways, and especially avoid places like Fairview Plaza…
That’s all I’ve got for y’all! Enjoy the Great American Solar Eclipse and be sure to follow @wxornotBG and @WKUweather on Twitter, and Landon Hampton on Facebook for the latest info!