Come 1:30 p.m. Monday, Beaufort County residents will start to see the beginnings of a total solar eclipse. By about 2:45 p.m., the eclipse is expected to reach 90-percent totality.

A total solar eclipse is when the moon passes between Earth and the sun, temporarily blocking the sun from view. Monday’s eclipse will be visible across the continental United States. The last time this event happened was in June 1918.

Here is a rundown of some of the eclipse-viewing events in our area:

• Goose Creek State Park will host a solar eclipse party, from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m., at the field across from the visitor center. Everyone is invited to attend. Bring water, blankets, sunscreen, chairs and umbrellas. There will also be a live stream inside the visitor center. For more information, call 252-923-2191.
• The City of Washington and Grace Martin Harwell Senior Center will host a solar eclipse viewing party, from 1:30 p.m. to 4 p.m., at Festival Park in Washington. Viewing glasses will be given out to the first 250 people. Glasses are required at this event. No pets please. For more information, contact Stephen Clayton at 252-975-9641.
• Beaufort County Community College will host a solar viewing party, from 1:30 p.m. to 4 p.m., behind Building 10. The college will have six telescopes, a limited number of viewing glasses and employees to explain the phenomenon. Hot dogs, snacks and drinks will be available.

Doctors are also encouraging residents to take precautions and wear appropriate, protective eyewear while viewing the solar eclipse. Sunglasses are not effective in protecting one’s eyes in this situation. Do not look at the sun without protective eyewear. Despite the moon’s seeming coverage of the sun, viewing the phenomenon unprotected is dangerous, harmful and can cause blindness.