Experiencing the April 8 Solar Eclipse in Kawartha Lakes
On Monday April 8, 2024 between 2pm and 4:30pm, Ontario will experience a total solar eclipse in some areas.
A total solar eclipse is when the Sun’s disk is completely covered by the Moon’s shadow for a short period of time. The last time a total solar eclipse happened in southern Ontario was in 1925 and after April 8 2024, the province won’t see it again until 2099.
The Path of Totality is a narrow path approximately 110 to 115 kilometres wide where the Sun will appear completely covered by the Moon’s shadow.
While Kawartha Lakes is not in the Path of Totality, the municipality is still expected to experience 97.59% eclipse coverage. Partial coverage is expected to begin in Kawartha Lakes at 2:07pm, with maximum coverage occurring at 3:21pm. For exact times in your area, check out the Total Solar Eclipse Path Map and Times tool.
Solar Eclipse Safety
As the moon aligns perfectly between Earth and the Sun, parts of Ontario will experience temporary darkness, please be sure to follow the below advice to stay safe during the eclipse:
Warning: Do not look directly at the eclipse. Looking directly at the uncovered Sun without eye protection can cause retinal burns, blurred vision or loss of eyesight. There are no pain sensors in your retinas, once symptoms begin, the damage is usually too late to reverse.
Glasses with specialized filters adhering to the ISO 12312-2 international standard can be worn to prevent eye damage. Glasses should be inspected for wrinkles or scratches ahead of use and should not be used if damaged.
Historically, eclipses have prompted mass movements of people to prime viewing areas. While Kawartha Lakes isn’t considered a prime viewing area, the significant eclipse coverage we’ll experience could lead to more people visiting the municipality.
While driving, please avoid looking at the eclipse. Keep your eyes on the road to safely operate your vehicle and avoid collisions.
Follow local directives and road signage as you travel on April 8. While travelling on highways, do not stop, take pictures or get out of your car to view the eclipse.
Be sure to check out Municipal 511 for the latest road conditions for any potential road closures or issues during the eclipse.
Expect increases in traffic and road congestion. Be sure to plan ahead, fill your gas tank and have snacks, water, entertainment and first-aid supplies on hand in case you get stuck in traffic.
If you’re travelling to view the eclipse, plan to arrive at your destination 24 to 48 hours ahead of time.
Visit the Haliburton, Kawartha, Pine Ridge District Health Unit website for more eclipse safety tips and best viewing practices.
Free eclipse activities and programming at the Kawartha Lakes Public Library
On Monday April 8, craft your way to understanding the magic of a solar eclipse by joining us at a Kawartha Lakes Public Library branch for a solar eclipse craft!
The free craft will be available at the Bobcaygeon, Dalton, Fenelon Falls, Lindsay, Little Britain, Norland and Woodville branches during regular branch hours. For branch locations and hours, visit www.kawarthalakeslibrary.ca/hours
In addition to the eclipse craft, library branches will also be hosting other fun and exciting activities for the whole family on the April 8 PA Day:
Bobcaygeon: All-day table top and board game bonanza from 9am to 6:30pm. There will also be a drop-in special science workshop between 1pm to 3:30pm.
Dalton: Join us for the Special Little Lights program featuring songs, stories and parachute games for preschoolers, their family and caregivers from 10:30am to 12pm. There will also be a drop-in Cardboard Creation Workshop with Makedo Construction Tools from 12pm to 4pm.
Fenelon Falls: Join us for a drop-in string art craft from 10:30am to 4:30pm.
Lindsay: Join us for cookie decorating workshop drop-in sessions on every half hour from 10:30am to 1pm. There will also be a drop-in Cardboard Creation Workshop with Makedo Construction Tools from 10:30am to 6pm.
Little Britain: “Let’s Build with Keva Planks”, drop-in anytime from 10:30am to 1:30pm.
Norland: “Let’s Build with Keva Planks”, drop-in anytime from 10:30am to 5:30pm.
Woodville: Table top games available, drop-in anytime from 10:30am to 3:30pm.
