On Wednesday, 12 August 2026, a total solar eclipse will cross parts of Spain. The path of totality runs from north-west to south-east, crossing Spain from Galicia to the Balearic Islands. Outside Spain, totality will be visible in Iceland, parts of Greenland, over the Atlantic, in the far north of Siberia (Russia), and in a small area of Portugal, among other places. Spain is therefore expected to be an important viewing location, with visitor numbers set to rise.
The central government has initiated coordination measures in advance. According to the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Business, the government expects around 446,700 additional tourists in the provinces where the eclipse will be particularly easy to see during the week of 10 to 16 August. The estimate is part of the preparations for the “Trío de eclipses 2026–2028” presented at La Moncloa, and will help plan capacity in transport, accommodation and information services.
Weather conditions are crucial for viewing the eclipse. The state meteorological agency AEMET expects generally stable weather on 12 August, with mostly little cloud or clear skies. Cloud is possible mainly in the Cantabrian area and locally along parts of the Galician and Alborán coasts. High cloud will nevertheless allow viewing in many cases. In May 2026, AEMET published an analysis of historical cloud cover for the affected regions, and is updating short-term forecasts in the days before the event.
Scientific institutions and astronomy associations in Spain are preparing public viewing events and safety guidance. The recommended protection is certified solar viewing glasses or suitable filters; looking at the Sun without a filter, with the naked eye or through optical devices, is dangerous. The National Geographic Institute (IGN) and other specialist bodies are providing exact contact times, maps of the path of totality and regional visibility data. Across much of the country outside the path of totality, a deep partial eclipse will be visible; within the path of totality, the Sun will be completely obscured for a short time. Authorities, tourism offices and research institutions are bringing their information together to support safe viewing and an orderly event on 12 August.
Editor: Andreas M. Brucker (Article created with AI assistance).