The solar eclipse is just 3 days away. What's the forecast for April 8? Check weather updates here

Cloudy skies and rain chances are still in the weather forecast for Columbus during the solar eclipse on Monday.

Columbus isn't in the path of totality, but it will still see a partial eclipse that will last 2 hours and 38 minutes. At the peak of the eclipse, the moon will obscure approximately 99.4% of the sun.

Here are the latest updates on Columbus' eclipse viewing conditions, according to the National Weather Service office in Wilmington. Remember, whatever the forecast is for that day, it's important to wear proper safety glasses when viewing the eclipse.

What will the weather be like in Columbus on eclipse day, April 8?

The NWS seven-day detailed forecast states there will be a chance of rain Sunday night, with mostly cloudy skies and a 50% chance of precipitation that could bring up to an inch of rain. The NWS is still optimistic about partly sunny skies on Monday, the day of the eclipse. Temperatures will be warm, with a high near 71.

Rain will likely move into the region Sunday night. So, will we be able to see the eclipse on Monday afternoon?

There is still some uncertainty regarding the eclipse viewing experience. The NWS reports that it will depend on the placement and timing of this weather system. Two potential scenarios are currently in the forecast.

There's a scenario where partial clearing could occur Monday afternoon if the system is blocked by ridging over the Great Lakes, causing it to move slightly to the north. However, the system could barrel over the Great Lakes and extend south, causing poor viewing conditions.

What happens if it's cloudy on the day of the eclipse?

The total eclipse will happen, rain or shine. But cloud coverage will make it a bit darker, and experts say the transition into total darkness will seem more sudden.

Due to this, observers may miss the subtle changes as the sun slowly disappears and day becomes night.

What time will Columbus see the solar eclipse?

The eclipse will start in Texas and then make its way across the country. The path to totality will also pass over states that include Oklahoma, Arkansas, Missouri, Illinois, Kentucky, and Indiana before arriving in Ohio. Pennsylvania, New York, Vermont, New Hampshire and Maine also lie in the eclipse path.

For Columbus, the eclipse will begin at 1:59 p.m. as the moon slides in front of the sun. It will end at 4:29 p.m. The total eclipse will begin in Ohio at 3:08 p.m. with the final exit of the moon’s shadow at 3:19 p.m.

Read: 2024 solar eclipse: 'New' path of totality map reveals Ohio will see less of the solar eclipse

This article originally appeared on Cincinnati Enquirer: Solar eclipse 2024: Cloudy skies, rain chances possible in Columbus