Thousands gather in Kingston for 2024 solar eclipse
Monday marked the first total solar eclipse in the Kingston region since the 14th century. The city had a perfect view of the event in totality, where the moon fully obscured the sun for almost 3 minutes.
The eclipse began at 2:09 p.m. and ended at 4:34 p.m., with totality taking place from 3:22 p.m. to 3:25 p.m.
While Kingston was prepared for up to 500,000 visitors, turnout seemed to be much lower than anticipated, with quiet streets and comfortable crowds at the prime viewing locations.
In a release from the City, they stated, “Forecasted cloud cover appeared throughout the day and deterred many of the anticipated day trip visitors.”
Despite the cloudy conditions, they reported approximately 10,000 guests staying at local hotels, and 20,000 people gathering at prime viewing locations around Kingston.
The City of Kingston’s webcams at various locations in the city accrued more than 50,000 viewers.
- Audio story includes files from Chloe Paris, CFRC Volunteer.
