The solar eclipse in Toronto won't be as cool as you think — here's where to watch it instead

What is a total solar eclipse?

A total solar eclipse happens when the moon passes between the sun and Earth, completely blocking the face of the sun.

In Toronto, the moon will only cover about 99 percent of the sun's face. While this may seem like a lot, the difference between 99 percent and 100 percent is quite dramatic.

There will be some unique features that will only take place during the moments of totality that won't happen in Toronto.

For one, you've probably heard by now that you must watch the solar eclipse with special eclipse-viewing glasses.

However, what you may not know is that you can look at the total solar eclipse without the glasses, but only during totality. During a partial eclipse, it's never safe to look at the sun without proper eyewear.

The total solar eclipse will also reveal a part of the sun we can't normally see. During totality, the sun's corona, or outer atmosphere, will be revealed, normally hidden because the sun's surface below it is so much brighter, according to NASA.

The phenomenon creates a diamond ring effect around the sun that's a spectacular sight to see, according to Space.com.

During totality, areas in the path of the total solar eclipse will be plunged into a darkness like the kind experienced at dusk or dawn; the change can affect wildlife, cause temperatures to fall and even cause the wind to change direction, according to The Weather Network.

Birds may fall silent, crickets might start chirping, and bees can sometimes return to their hives, fooled by the sudden darkness.

As totality begins, the sky will also look quite different. You may be able to see a 360-degree sunset, according to NASA, and may also be able to see some particularly bright stars or planets in the darkened sky, such as Venus and Jupiter, which will most likely be the two most notable objects other than the eclipsed sun itself.

During a partial solar eclipse, like what Toronto is expected to see, only a part of the sun will appear to be covered, giving it a crescent shape. Since the city will experience 99 percent coverage, the sky won't darken the same way during totality, but it may redden, as it does during an annular solar eclipse.

Where to watch the 2024 solar eclipse

Thankfully, there are tons of cities near Toronto where you can watch the total solar eclipse.

Niagara Falls will be a popular spot for eclipse viewing, with totality set to last for over 3 minutes here, one of the longest durations in the country. The region is expecting an influx of visitors, and has issued a state of emergency ahead of the celestial event to prepare.

Other nearby regions in the path of totality include Hamilton, Burlington, St. Catharines, Kingston, and Oakville.

For a full list of cities in the path of totality, you can refer to Eclipse2024.

It'll be a while before the next total solar eclipse occurs over Canada, so don't miss your chance to see it!