Solar eclipse spectacle arrives in Europe; Spain faces traffic chaos, Croatia sees partial view

Europe is gearing up for a rare astronomical spectacle on August 12, 2026, as a total solar eclipse sweeps across the continent. This event marks the first total solar eclipse visible from continental Europe since 1999, drawing immense interest.

Spain will be at the heart of the phenomenon, with the path of totality crossing northern regions including A Coruña, Gijón, Oviedo, Santander, Bilbao, León, and Burgos. In Oviedo, totality will last approximately 1 minute and 45 seconds, while Burgos will experience about 1 minute and 43 seconds of darkness. Millions of spectators are expected, leading to significant traffic congestion and necessitating a comprehensive security plan with thousands of police officers deployed and traffic restrictions in place.

Croatia will witness a partial eclipse, beginning in the evening. Zagreb will see the partial eclipse start around 7:25 PM, with the maximum coverage around 8:06 PM. Residents in western Croatia, particularly Istria and Kvarner, will have the best views, seeking locations with unobstructed western horizons. As the Moon moves across the Sun's disk, daylight will gradually fade, creating a deep partial eclipse in Croatia just before sunset.

Authorities are emphasizing the critical need for safety. Direct observation of the Sun during an eclipse, even a partial one, can cause severe and permanent vision damage. Ordinary sunglasses are insufficient; only specialized eclipse glasses designed for solar viewing offer adequate protection.