WhatsApp ‘drops’, price hikes and queues: scramble for solar eclipse specs

A frantic rush for certified solar eclipse glasses has gripped London as a rare celestial event approaches. Shoppers face doubled prices and dwindling stock, leading to frayed tempers and desperate hunts for the elusive eyewear.

Amid the scarcity, a clandestine WhatsApp group has emerged, pinging members with notifications about "drops" of the coveted glasses. This underground network, operating with a sense of urgency, mirrors the distribution tactics often associated with illicit substances, highlighting the extreme demand and the lengths people will go to obtain safe viewing equipment.

Retailers are struggling to keep up with the surge in demand. Many stores have sold out, and those with remaining stock are charging significantly higher prices. The scramble underscores the public's desire to witness the solar eclipse but also points to a potential lack of preparedness and foresight in ensuring adequate supply of essential safety gear.