On Saturday, Oct. 14, 2023, an annular solar eclipse will be visible in North America for the first time since 2012. The eclipse can be seen in Williamson County between 11:52 a.m. to 11:56 a.m. with maximum annularity at 11:54 a.m.
During an annular eclipse, it is never safe to look directly at the sun without specialized eye protection designed for solar viewing. Multiple local libraries are distributing free eclipse glasses. Do not look at the eclipse through a camera lens, telescope or binoculars. For more eclipse eye safety tips, visit NASA Science.
Two county parks, Berry Springs Park and Preserve and River Ranch County Park, will have viewing events hosted by the park’s friends groups and the Good Water Master Naturalist.
The Friends of Berry Springs and the Good Water Master Naturalist will host a viewing event on Oct. 14, 2023, from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at the field above the Tonkawa Pavilion at Berry Springs Park and Preserve. Solar viewing glasses will be available until supplies runs out with a suggested donation of a dollar. Participants can also bring a cereal box and learn how to make a solar viewing box.
The Friends of River Ranch County Park and Good Water Master Naturalist will host a viewing event on Oct. 14, 2023, from 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. near the Interpretive Center at River Ranch County Park. Viewing glasses will be available until supplies run out. Participants can also bring a cereal box and learn how to make a solar viewing box. Informational lectures will take place at 11 a.m., 11:15 a.m., and 11:30 a.m. Park entry fees apply.
The Texas Department of Transportation advises that due to an increase in traffic and visitors coming through Central Texas to view the eclipse, please limit travel on major roadways on Saturday, Oct. 14. Additional information to help you prepare for the upcoming eclipse:
- Do not stop on road shoulders to view the eclipse.
- Plan ahead for possible delays and give extra time to get to your destination before and after the eclipse.
- For more information on Texas state road conditions, visit drivetexas.org.