Solar Eclipse Excitement in Portugal: The Hunt for Glasses Begins in Pharmacies

Things are a bit hectic in Portugal today, with everyone talking about the big event that will happen in the evening: the solar eclipse. There is great preparation and curiosity throughout the country. In fact, the doors of pharmacies are being rushed to the last minute, because finding protective glasses has turned into a small-scale treasure hunt these days.

Stocks are Running Out in Pharmacies

The demand for these special glasses, which we can normally find easily on pharmacy shelves, has exploded. According to Ema Paulino, President of the National Association of Pharmacists (ANF), 63,259 pairs of glasses have already been sold in the short period between August 1 and Monday. Today, new shipments are being made to pharmacies, but due to the problems with the suppliers, the products are quickly melted. In most pharmacies, even new stocks are reserved by phone calls in advance. So, if you're thinking "let me drop by and pick it up" at the last minute, you may need a little luck.

Of course, it's not just the pharmacy aspect of the business; Institutions such as Ciência Viva also support the process with hundreds of thousands of informative brochures and materials.

Pay Attention to Eye Health!

There are constant warnings in the news and social media, but it is still useful to remind. Looking directly at the sun with the naked eye can cause serious and permanent retinal damage. Make sure to check whether the glasses you will buy have the ISO 12312-2 standard and CE marking. Don't rely on homemade methods or standard sunglasses; Eye health is no joke.

The Moment Awaited Since 1912

This event, which we expect to start around 18:30 this evening and last until 20:30, is of historical importance for Portugal. Because such a comprehensive eclipse was last seen in the mainland of the country in 1912. For the next one, the dates point to 2144. So it may be the only chance we will ever see in our lives.

The total eclipse will only be fully visible from a very small area, such as the Montesinho Natural Park in the northeast (around Bragança). In the rest of the country, approximately 92% to 99% of the Sun will be covered. On the Azores and Madeira sides, this rate will be around 74-77%.

No matter what the weather is like in the evening, everyone is preparing to look at the sky so as not to miss this rare moment. If you have grabbed your glasses, enjoy it, or if not, share in this moment with safe alternatives.

Source: Lusa

Photo: Jongsun Lee / Unsplash