In just a few days, on April 8, a total solar eclipse will grace the skies, but unfortunately, the forecast for Dallas-Fort Worth predicts partly to mostly cloudy conditions, according to the National Weather Service. Meteorologists are closely monitoring the cloud cover density in North and Central Texas, in hopes that optimal viewing conditions may still be possible.

The latest update from the weather service's office in Fort Worth indicates a medium chance of partly cloudy skies or better during the eclipse at 1 p.m. on April 8. However, there is a greater than 90% chance of thin high clouds being present in the morning, which could potentially become denser by the time of the eclipse. The total eclipse is expected to begin at 1:40 p.m. in Dallas, lasting approximately four minutes, while a partial eclipse is predicted to start around 12:20 p.m.

The weather service warns that high clouds are almost certain in the region, diminishing the likelihood of perfect viewing conditions. Additionally, there is an increasing chance of dense low clouds impacting visibility in parts of Central Texas. The forecast indicates that South-Central Texas will experience mostly cloudy skies, and meteorologists remain uncertain about the cloud density and the potential for breaks in the cloud cover to allow filtered views.

While there are better chances for favorable viewing conditions in the northeastern part of Arkansas, according to a weather service graphic, no parts of Texas in the path of totality are expected to have a high chance of favorable conditions. Weather forecasters emphasize that changes to the forecast are still possible in the coming days.

It is worth noting that storm systems are expected to bring opportunities for storms late Saturday into Sunday and again late Monday into Tuesday following the eclipse. The timing of these systems will play a significant role in determining the visibility on eclipse day.

As anticipation builds for the long-awaited total solar eclipse, enthusiasts and sky gazers in Dallas-Fort Worth and surrounding areas are keeping a watchful eye on the weather updates, hoping for a break in the clouds to witness this breathtaking celestial event.

For more information and updates on the total solar eclipse, readers can visit dallasnews.com/eclipse, part of The Dallas Morning News' comprehensive coverage of the 2024 eclipse.