Eclipse 2017 Forecast First Look

We are now just 8 days out form the Total Solar Eclipse of 2017. This is the first coast to coast Total Solar Eclipse in over 100 years here in the United States. We are always at the mercy of weather for any outdoor events. I am looking at long range models this morning and Mother Nature looks to be a little non-cooperative for this rare event in our area. The good news is there is still a lot of time for the forecast to change and it most likely will. The question remains will it be for the better of worse? 

The cover image for this blog is the timeline for the eclipse here in Rowan County. shortly after 1pm the moon will begin to move between the earth and the sun. A few things will happen as this occurs. Of course we will start to lose daylight. along with that we will see temperatures drop and they may drop around 20º from the time this event starts and peaks. Current models show the temperature will be around 89º when the eclipse starts in our area. We could see the temperature bottom out at around 69º by the peak at around 2:41pm. The moon will begin to make its way from between the earth and the sun around 2:43 and will be totally clear of the sun by around 4:04pm.

The biggest concern with the current model readings for me on the day of the eclipse and the timeframe is the possibility of both rain and overcast skies.  See the model data below on those. Both show a possibility that we could be dealing with those obstacles during the timing of the eclipse.

Now don't give up hope on this just yet. There is still a long time between now and the eclipse. As you have heard me say before. I am not a big fan of long range forecast because there are too many variables that can and usually do change well before the day of any event arrives. That is why my forecast are always only 5 days out. I would not throw the eclipse glasses away. I certainly wouldn't change any plans on viewing the eclipse. I will continue to post updates right here and on social media as we get closer to August 21st. Don't be surprised if the forecast changes a few times. We still have plenty of time to get lucky and have a sunny dry day on August 21st. As always thank you for following Rowan County Weather!