According to a report from Eltiempo.es, residents and visitors f Galicia and the Canary Islands are in for a celestial treat on Monday, 8 April, as they’ll have the opportunity to witness a partial solar eclipse. Unlike in Mexico, the United States, and Canada, where the eclipse will be visible in its entirety, the spectacle in Spain will be of a lesser intensity.
Specifically, areas like the extreme northwest of A Coruña in Galicia and Santa Cruz de Tenerife in the Canary Islands will experience percentages of eclipse close to or exceeding 5%, while regions like Lugo and Ourense will see percentages below 1%.
The eclipse is set to commence around sunset, potentially lasting up to 15 minutes under optimal conditions. In Galicia, the event will kick off at approximately 21:00, while in the Canary Islands, it will start around 20:17.
In terms of specific timings, the eclipse will begin at 21:01 in A Coruña, 21:02 in Santiago de Compostela, 20:17 in El Hierro and La Palma, 20:17 in Tenerife, and 20:18 in Gran Canaria. Duration-wise, it will vary across locations, with, for example, Camariñas in A Coruña experiencing the eclipse from 21:02 to 21:11, and Los Llanos de Aridane in La Palma from 20:17 to 20:33.
However, prospective viewers should be aware that the eclipse will occur very close to the horizon, necessitating a clear view. Additionally, it’s crucial to use approved eclipse-viewing glasses to safeguard one’s eyes.
Regarding the weather, Eltiempo.es forecasts variable skies but assures that there will be no remnants of the calima experienced over the weekend in Galicia or the Canary Islands. While some low clouds are anticipated in the north of the Canary Islands, the rest of the region is expected to have clear skies with temperatures hovering around 20ºC.
Conversely, Galicia is slated for a day of heavy cloud cover and rain due to a frontal system moving in during the morning. Though there’s a 25% chance of lingering light rain during the eclipse, conditions are expected to improve as the day progresses.
WHEN CAN THE NEXT “GREAT” SOLAR ECLIPSE BE SEEN IN SPAIN?
Looking ahead, Eltiempo.es suggests that the next notable solar eclipse visible in Spain will occur around midday on 29 March 2025, with percentages ranging from 30% to 15% across the Canary Islands and the mainland. Then, on 12 August 2026, a total solar eclipse is scheduled to sweep across the north and centre of the mainland, with percentages not dipping below 90%, while the Canary Islands will experience a partial eclipse at around 65%.
