NEW YORK (1010 WINS/WCBS 880) – Gov. Kathy Hochul announced the launch of a statewide statewide effort to protect New Yorkers ahead of the Total Solar Eclipse next month on April 8.
A limited quantity of I LOVE NY eclipse glasses will be available beginning Tuesday at 30 locations throughout the state, including the Moynihan Train Hall – MTA Long Island Rail Road Ticket Windows.
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.
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.
The entire event will last for up to 2 ½ hours, marking the time the sun is first obstructed to the last moments when the moon’s shadow is cast.
"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."
Officials are also reminding stargazers to be wary of scams, fake merchandise as well as phony accommodation listings.
According to the Better Business Bureau, 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: 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.
Anyone who encounters a marketplace problem while enjoying the eclipse in New York can file a complaint with the Division of Consumer Protection at https://dos.ny.gov/consumer-protection.