As Eclipse Day Approaches, Hochul Warns About Harmful Rays And Scams

HUDSON VALLEY, NY — With many anticipating the rare solar eclipse on Monday, April 8, Governor Kathy Hochul launched a statewide effort this week to protect New Yorkers from harmful rays — and scammers.

The effort includes statewide distribution of limited-edition "I Love NY" eclipse glasses at 30 locations throughout the state — including New York State Welcome Centers and select service areas along the New York State Thruway — as well as a reminder for stargazers to be wary of scams, fake merchandise and phony accommodation listings.

See Also:

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In addition, Hochul expanded an "I Love NY" campaign to urge New Yorkers to take proper safety precautions during the eclipse.

"The total solar eclipse will be a once-in-a-generation experience for our state, and it’s critical that New Yorkers have the tools and information to enjoy it safely," Hochul said. "From heightening awareness of scams to providing thousands of New Yorkers with eclipse glasses, I’m focused on giving everyone the resources they need to safely experience this extraordinary event."

On April 8, a total solar eclipse will encompass the western and northern parts of New York State with the roughly 100-mile wide path of totality entering in the southwestern part of the state at just after 3:15 p.m. and departing northern New York just before 3:30 p.m, Hochul said.

In the Hudson Valley, while a 100 percent eclipse is not expected, residents can expect to see about 90 percent obstruction of the sun.

During the eclipse, it is especially unsafe to look directly at the sun without specialized eye protection and can result in serious injury, Hochul said. The partial phases of the solar eclipse can only be safely observed directly with specialized eclipse glasses or a handheld solar viewer ­— regular sunglasses are not a safe replacement, she said.

A full list of locations distributing the glasses, as well as other sources for eclipse glasses, is available here.

Glasses will be limited to two pairs per person, while supplies last, with a limited amount distributed daily. The glasses were approved by the New York State Department of Health and carry an ISO certification, Hochul said.

In addition, Hochul said, the New York Department of State’s Division of Consumer Protection is providing tips for the many planning to travel to to witness the solar eclipse.

"Consumers need to be informed of their rights, shop smartly to safeguard their hard-earned money and stay vigilant to protect themselves from scams," Hochul said.

According to the Better Business Bureau, Hochul said, scams associated with the 2024 solar eclipse may include:

• Travel scams: Scammers may advertise discounted travel packages or transportation services for viewing the eclipse, only to disappear with customers’ money or provide subpar services.
• Fake merchandise: Unscrupulous vendors might sell counterfeit or overpriced eclipse-themed merchandise.
• Phony accommodation listings: Scammers could create false hotel or rental listings claiming to have optimal views of the eclipse while these listings may not exist or properties may not be as described, or the lister is not really the owner.

To safeguard against these scams, consumers should:

• Try to pay with a credit card. Credit cards often offer more protection than paying by cash, check or debit card. Some credit card companies also offer perks like trip insurance or concierge service while traveling and may offer additional protections if the trip is canceled. Check with your credit card company on the conditions of travel expenditure reimbursement.
• Purchasing merchandise. Purchase eclipse viewing glasses and other related products only from reputable vendors or verified sources. Look to see if the glasses include the ISO stamp and message. When seeking eclipse glasses or handheld solar viewers, your best bet is to start with the AAS list of suppliers so you can be sure your viewers are safe.
• Personal information. Exercise caution when providing personal or financial information online.
• Do research. Verify the legitimacy of accommodation listings by researching the property and reading reviews from trusted sources.
• Hochul also unveiled a special eclipse website highlighting viewing location information across New York State that will experience the path of totality, a variety of attractions and special eclipse-related events happening across the state.