Solar eclipse warning to everyone in England as phenomenon happening Wednesday

Solar eclipse warning to everyone in England as phenomenon happening Wednesday People across the region hoping to catch a glimpse of the event have been issued a warning People living in England have been issued a warning if they're hoping to catch a glimpse of the partial solar eclipse happening next Wednesday (August 12). The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA), which covers public health issues, primarily in England, has issued an alert today about the upcoming phenomenon for people across the region. Taking to social media platform X, the government body said: "On 12 August, a partial solar eclipse will be visible across the UK. If you want to use eclipse glasses, make sure they are genuine with specially designed filters that meet the international safety standard." It urged people to make sure that their eclipse glasses have a safety certification printed somewhere on them. These include the codes: 'ISO 12312-2' or 'ISE 12312-2:2015'. In an additional 'don't take risks' warning, the UKHSA said: "Old eclipse glasses may not be safe". It explained: "Especially if the lenses are creased or scratched, as their filtering properties may have been compromised." On Wednesday, Britain is set to see a major solar eclipse, the likes of which haven't been seen in a generation. The moon will block as much as 96 per cent of the sun, causing the sky to become eerily dim. It will be the biggest solar eclipse seen from the UK since 1999, with the moon covering between 90% and 96% of the Sun, depending on where you are. There won't be another partial eclipse this deep until 2050. The solar eclipse will be visible across the UK. Those in the south west are expected to have the best view of it. As rare and exciting as the event will be, looking directly at the sun without the right protection can cause permanent damage to your eyesight. Following the total solar eclipse in 1999, the Royal College of Ophthalmologists reported that approximately 70 people experienced vision issues after viewing the eclipse. About 40% of these people had stared at it for under a minute. Because the eclipse takes place in the evening as the Sun is setting, you will need a completely clear view of the west-northwest horizon. - 6.13pm — eclipse begins: The Moon will first appear to take a "bite" out of the edge of the Sun. - 7.10pm — maximum eclipse: The event reaches its peak. The Sun will be reduced to a downward-facing crescent, and you will notice a distinct drop in temperature and light levels. - 8.03pm — eclipse ends: The Moon completely leaves the Sun's path just before sunset. Can I just wear sunglasses? A statement on Gov.uk reads: "Ordinary sunglasses - no matter how dark - do not provide adequate protection for viewing a solar eclipse. They reduce glare, making it feel more comfortable to look at the Sun for longer, while still allowing harmful solar radiation to reach the retina. Never use regular sunglasses to look at the Sun during an eclipse." How can I watch the eclipse safely? When using eclipse glasses or handheld solar viewers, ensure they are authentic eclipse glasses equipped with specially made filters that comply with the international safety standard ISO 12312-2:2015(E). You can find genuine eclipse glasses at trusted retailers like Royal Museums Greenwich. Gov.uk states: "Be cautious of products sold online that may not meet this requirement. If you're unsure whether a product is certified, don't use it. Don't use eclipse glasses if the lenses are scratched, torn or damaged." Alternatively, you can watch the eclipse indirectly without any specialist equipment at all. Safe options include: - a pinhole viewer, which you can easily make at home - viewing the Sun's image projected through a colander or the gaps between tree leaves - projecting the Sun's image onto a sheet of paper using a simple pinhole projector Whichever method you choose, make sure you follow the guidance carefully. The Royal Astronomical Society has published detailed, practical advice on all of these approaches.