London to see near-total solar eclipse on 12 August

London will experience its most dramatic solar eclipse in nearly three decades on 12 August. The moon will block 90% of the sun’s surface, creating a partial eclipse visible across the capital. The event marks the deepest coverage since the total eclipse of 1999, as reported by the Evening Standard.

The eclipse begins at 6:17 pm and concludes at 8:06 pm. The peak occurs at 7:13 pm, when the moon will obscure the largest portion of the sun. The entire phenomenon lasts one hour and 49 minutes, according to the Evening Standard.

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Weather outlook improves for viewing

Clear skies will determine how well Londoners see the eclipse. The Met Office has released a long-range forecast covering the period up to 12 August. The outlook suggests a shift toward drier conditions in mid-August, following possible early-month rainfall. The Met Office stated, as quoted by the Evening Standard, that temperatures may return to average levels, with warmer spells possible in the south.

The forecast adds that dry and settled weather is likely to dominate around the middle of the month. Specific predictions remain uncertain due to the extended timeframe. The Evening Standard will update its weather guidance as the date approaches.

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No organised events in Barnet yet

Barnet Council has not announced any official gatherings for the eclipse. Residents seeking the best views may consider local parks or open spaces with unobstructed sightlines. The Evening Standard has published a guide to recommended London viewing locations, though none are within the borough.

In 1999, London skies were mostly clouded during the eclipse. A photograph from the Associated Press, published by the Evening Standard, shows a woman and two children watching the event on Westminster Bridge under overcast conditions.

Safety advice for observers

The Royal Astronomical Society warns that looking directly at the sun, even during an eclipse, can cause permanent eye damage. The society advises using certified solar filters or indirect viewing methods, such as pinhole projectors. Regular sunglasses do not provide sufficient protection.

The next partial eclipse visible from London will not occur until 2026. The 12 August event offers the closest experience to a total eclipse for UK observers in over a quarter-century.