- Total solar eclipse darkened skies over Spain and Iceland on Wednesday, with authorities deploying more than 33,500 law enforcement officers to observation areas and access points.
- Much of Spain was on alert as temperatures climbed above 35°C (95°F) amid concerns of heat and wildfire risks.
- In Reykjavík, hotel rooms averaged over $1,000 for Wednesday night, with prices roughly double 2025 rates.
- Weeks ago, the most destructive wildfire in Spanish history devoured 500 square kilometers in Ávila, forcing evacuations of tens of thousands of people.
- Eclipse glasses have been sold or distributed across Spain for months, with many pharmacies running out of stock ahead of the eclipse.
- Proper eye protection is essential for viewing the eclipse, and experts emphasize the importance of using eclipse glasses.
A total solar eclipse captivated millions across Spain and Iceland on Wednesday, with totality lasting less than 2.5 minutes in some areas. Authorities deployed 33,500 officers to manage crowds and mitigate wildfire risks amid soaring temperatures exceeding 35°C (95°F).12
In Spain, the Interior Ministry established 350 official viewing sites while restricting access to another 123 due to environmental hazards. The recent devastating wildfire in Ávila, which consumed 500 square kilometers and displaced tens of thousands, heightened concerns. Interior Minister Fernando Grande-Marlaska emphasized the need for extreme preventive measures due to high temperatures and dry vegetation.4
The eclipse attracted an estimated half a million additional visitors, with hotel demand skyrocketing in cities like A Coruña and Bilbao. In Iceland, hotel prices surged to over $1,000 for rooms in Reykjavik, marking the first total solar eclipse visible from the capital since 1433. As the event approached, many pharmacies in Spain ran out of eclipse glasses, highlighting the public's eagerness to safely view the phenomenon. Telmo Fernández Castro, director of the Madrid Planetarium, reminded the public of the importance of using proper protection when viewing the sun.5
“Reykjavík hotel rooms average over $1,000 for Wednesday night, roughly double 2025 rates, as Iceland sees its first total eclipse since 1954. Eclipse glasses have sold out at many pharmacies, with officials urging proper eye protection.”
