Spain Tightens Security Ahead of Total Solar Eclipse

A massive security operation is being deployed in Spain ahead of the total solar eclipse that will occur on August 12. Authorities expect a massive influx of tourists and warn about the threat of wildfires, traffic jams and eye hazards.

The Civil Guard will involve over 24,000 officers who will monitor more than 660 official viewing sites. Traffic police, rescue services, nature protection units, aviation and drone operators will also join the operation.

According to official estimates, around 460,000 foreign tourists may visit Spain for the eclipse. Additionally, approximately 1.5 million extra car journeys are expected, which could complicate traffic and block access for fire engines and medical vehicles.

Of particular concern is the fire risk. July was one of the hottest and driest months on record in mainland Spain. Due to prolonged heat and lack of rainfall, vegetation remains extremely dry, so even a cigarette butt or a spark could cause a large-scale fire.

Campfires, barbecues and fireworks have been banned in a number of regions. Drivers will not be allowed to leave their vehicles on roadsides and dry grass. Some natural parks, forest roads and tourist routes will be closed, and in the Madrid area authorities propose restricting access to mountainous and forested areas.

The full phase of the eclipse will pass along a band about 200 km wide — from Galicia in the northwest of the country to the island of Majorca. In different regions it will be observed approximately between 8:26 PM and 8:33 PM local time, shortly before sunset.

Doctors remind that during the partial phases you should only look at the Sun through special eclipse glasses certified according to the EN ISO 12312-2 standard. Ordinary sunglasses, photographic film or tinted glass do not protect the eyes from retinal damage.

Sources: The Guardian, RTVE, El País.