This combination of photos shows the path of the sun during a total eclipse by the moon Monday, Aug. 21, 2017, near Redmond, Ore. On April 8, 2024, spectators who aren't near the path of totality or who get cloudy weather on eclipse day can still catch the total solar eclipse, with NASA, science centers and media organizations planning to stream live coverage online from different locations along the path. Associated Press File Photo

Ted S. Warren

Eclipse viewers in Butler County may have to squint when the moon passes by the sun on Monday afternoon, April 8.

At the time of the total solar eclipse, which will take place between 2 p.m. and 4:30 p.m., weather forecasts call for scattered clouds and rain, which could make it difficult for residents to get a good look at the once-in-a-lifetime celestial event.

Forecasts from the National Weather Service predict between 43% to 45% sky cover during the eclipse, along with a 40% chance of showers during the afternoon and a high of 63 degrees.

“The best likelihood for the rain is anywhere between 1 and 7 p.m.,” said Lee Hendricks, meteorologist for the NWS in Pittsburgh. “For the most part, it’s going to be scattered, not very persistent rain. You’re going to have periods of clouds with rain, and then you might have some brief breaks where you can see the sun.”

While Butler County is not in the path of “totality” — where the moon will completely block out the sun — Butler residents should see the moon take up 98.2% of the sun, according to eclipse2024.org. The peak of the eclipse should take place at 3:16 p.m.

In the event cloud cover completely blocks the view, there are alternative ways to watch the eclipse in full, such as online livestreams from NASA TV and the Associated Press.

In addition, solar eclipses can create visible effects even when totally obscured by cloud cover. Observers will still notice the unusual “daytime darkness” associated with solar eclipses.

This satellite image shows clouds over North America on Thursday. NOAA via AP