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Evening Standard
Evening Standard
National
Matt Watts and Michael Howie

Solar eclipse weather forecast: What chances of clear skies in London this evening?

The best solar eclipse visible from the UK in almost 27 years is happening this evening.

The moon will move to cover the sun in a total solar eclipse for people in Greenland, Iceland and Northern Spain.

The UK will only experience a partial eclipse, but around 90% of the sun will be covered by the moon meaning people should still be in for a spectacular sight in the skies.

It is the most complete eclipse seen in the UK since 1999.

Millions of people will be wanting to catch a glimpse in London, with the hope of clear skies to see the phenomenon in all its glory.

So as the moment approaches, the all-important question for any outdoor event in London will be asked “what is the weather forecast?”

A woman and her two children watch the start of the eclipse on Westminster Bridge in central London 11 August 1999. London skies were mostly cloudy for the event (AFP via Getty Images)
A woman and her two children watch the start of the eclipse on Westminster Bridge in central London 11 August 1999. London skies were mostly cloudy for the event (AFP via Getty Images)

What will the weather be like in London for the solar eclipse?

The eclipse takes place in summer, so there's a better chance of clear skies than you'd expect in autumn or winter.

You can never 100% predict the weather.

But the forecast is looking extremely promising, with the expectation of clear skies and temperatures in the high twenties.

The Met Office is forecasting bright sunshine and 31C at 6pm, with clear skies throughout the evening.

This year’s solar eclipse will begin at 6.17pm.

The whole phenomenon will last around an hour and 49 minutes until 8.06pm.

The height of the eclipse is expected at 7.13pm for Londoners.

Read our guide on the best places to watch in London. You can also see a live stream provided by The Standard.

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