Andorra Health Service Warns: Eclipse Eye Protection Essential to Avoid Blindness

Andorra's public health service has warned residents against viewing next week's partial solar eclipse without proper eye protection, highlighting the risk of severe and permanent retinal damage.

The Servei Andorrà d’Atenció Sanitària (SAAS) issued the alert via social media ahead of the event on Wednesday, August 12. From Andorra, the eclipse will be visible as 98% coverage of the sun, beginning around 7:45pm and reaching its peak about an hour later. Even at maximum coverage, the remaining sunlight remains intensely hazardous, capable of causing blurred vision, dark spots, colour perception issues or total vision loss—often without immediate pain.

SAAS stressed that direct observation demands certified eclipse glasses meeting ISO 12312-2 standards. Users must inspect filters beforehand for scratches, cracks or wear, and follow manufacturer guidelines. Standard sunglasses, regardless of tint, provide no adequate safeguard.

Children require close supervision to ensure they wear protection correctly at all times. The service also advised broader precautions for the late-summer conditions: seek shaded or cool spots, wear light clothing and hats, drink water regularly even without thirst, and check medications for photosensitivity risks. Store drugs in cool places, as heat and radiation can affect their efficacy.

For photography or using cameras, telescopes or mobiles, only certified solar filters are suitable; unprotected devices risk damage. Eye protection must stay on whenever viewing the sun through any equipment.

SAAS emphasised that injuries can occur in seconds, underscoring the need for caution during this rare astronomical display.