The much-awaited solar eclipse of 2024 thrilled skywatchers across New York on Monday afternoon. The eclipse, which lasted for up to four minutes, brought a breathtaking celestial event to the state. Upstate New York was fortunate to be within the path of totality, where the moon fully covered the sun, providing a mesmerizing experience for those in the region.

While upstate New York enjoyed the full eclipse, New York City witnessed a partial eclipse, with the moon obscuring around 90% of the sun's light. CBS News New York provided live coverage of the event, with reporters stationed across New York and New Jersey. Chief Weathercaster Lonnie Quinn reported from Lake Placid, and CBS2 News at 5 Anchor Kristine Johnson covered the eclipse from Niagara Falls.

The total solar eclipse began its journey at 2:07 p.m. EDT along Mexico's Pacific coast. It then traversed parts of the United States and Canada, bidding farewell to continental North America at 5:19 p.m. EDT. In New York, the eclipse entered the southwest region shortly after 3:15 p.m. and departed the northeast just before 3:30 p.m.

Spanning 124 miles and passing through 29 counties, including cities like Buffalo, Rochester, and Syracuse, the eclipse captivated spectators in its path. Although the entire event lasted approximately two and a half hours, the total solar eclipse was visible for only a brief two to four minutes depending on location.

After its passage through New York, the path of totality continued over Vermont, New Hampshire, and Maine before reaching Canada at 4:25 p.m.

In New York City, residents had the opportunity to witness a partial solar eclipse, with the moon covering approximately 90% of the sun. The peak of the partial eclipse occurred at 3:25 p.m. across the five boroughs, lasting for no more than a minute.

City officials stressed the importance of caution during the eclipse, especially while driving or walking. Drivers were urged to use their headlights, particularly during the peak of the eclipse. State authorities also reminded the public that it is not permitted to pull over on the shoulder of roadways to watch the eclipse.

The solar eclipse of 2024 provided a magnificent display of celestial wonder for the people of New York. This remarkable event left spectators in awe and served as a reminder of the beauty and grandeur of the universe above.