As a total solar eclipse prepares to cross North America on Monday, excitement is building among residents and tourists alike. The eclipse is set to darken skies along a path through Mexico, the United States, and Canada, with totality lasting up to 4 minutes and 28 seconds in certain spots. The eclipse is expected to begin on Mexico's Pacific coast around 2 p.m. EDT and exit continental North America on the Atlantic coast of Canada less than two hours later.

In Niagara Falls, New York, tourists have gathered at Niagara Falls State Park in anticipation of the rare event. Despite cloudy skies, visitors arrived with wagons, strollers, coolers, and chairs, eager to witness the eclipse. Synthia Nguyen and Jen Cerna from Washington, D.C., claimed a prime lawn spot along the rapids, arriving at 6 a.m. with chairs, a blanket, and a tent. They expressed excitement at the prospect of experiencing totality, noting that it would be a few minutes long enough for it to sink in. The pair, who work in an ophthalmology office, joked about expecting a lot of calls the next day.

However, the weather forecast is not looking favorable for a large part of the eclipse's path, with clouds potentially obstructing views in areas such as Texas. Meteorologists suggest that the eclipse may still be visible if the clouds are high and thin, although the clearest skies are expected in northern New England through to Canada. Residents and visitors in 15 U.S. states will have the opportunity to witness the full eclipse, with the length of totality varying by location.

Small towns and rural communities along the eclipse path are preparing for large crowds, with some areas doubling or tripling in population. Tourism and community leaders have taken precautions, such as trucking in extra fuel and port-a-potties, and issuing disaster declarations to receive additional aid. Despite the potential challenges, many are eagerly anticipating the rare celestial event that will be visible to practically everyone in North America, albeit with varying degrees of visibility depending on location.