UK Prepares for Major Solar Eclipse
Over 90% of the Sun will be obscured, prompting a surge in colander sales and specific driving advice.
Carla Rooney
The UK is bracing for its most significant solar eclipse since 1999.
Imo Bell explained the practical application of household items: "You can project the image of the eclipse using a household item like a colander which has lots of holes in, point the colander towards the sun with your back facing it, and in the shadow of the colander you’ll be able to see the eclipse in the holes, which is really cool."
A John Lewis spokesperson confirmed a sales surge. Colander sales have surged nearly 40% compared to last year, as shoppers prepare for tonight’s eclipse.
We’ve still got plenty of stock for anyone wanting to view this solar phenomenon safely, and, unlike eclipse glasses, you can use it to strain your spaghetti for dinner afterwards.
The spokesperson added, "We’ve still got plenty of stock for anyone wanting to view this solar phenomenon safely, and, unlike eclipse glasses, you can use it to strain your spaghetti for dinner afterwards."
Footage shared on social media reportedly showed a long queue in Goring, West Sussex. People appeared to wait for protective glasses to be handed out for the event.
RAC head of policy Simon Williams advised drivers to pull over somewhere safe and watch with specialist glasses.
Williams stated, "While total darkness is unlikely, those with vehicles that don’t have automatic headlights or daylight running lights may need to switch on their dipped beams to ensure they are easily visible to other road users."
He further advised, "The best advice to enjoy this rare event is to pull over somewhere safe and watch with specialist glasses."
The National Energy System Operator (Neso) cancelled its call to the industry to generate more power during the eclipse. Neso indicated no anticipated strain on the national grid.
Karen Smith, a post office owner, is understood to have been inundated by eclipse enthusiasts. Staff reportedly stayed late to fulfill orders in time for the event.
Dhara Patel highlighted the emotional impact of such events, stating, "For a lot of people, it can be a little bit of an emotional event."
Patel added, "I’ve seen previously people being drawn to tears or just have a really good moment within themselves where they realise they’re seeing or witnessing something… you’ve never seen before in your life."
Hours after the eclipse, the Perseid meteor shower will reach its peak on the night of August 12-13. This offers another celestial spectacle.