Well, today’s the big day of the total solar eclipse. And the only thing that could mar the event for the thousands of Missoulians who will be crowding parks to watch the event..is the weather, and the smoke.

Meteorologist Luke Robinson with the National Weather Service office in Missoula says the weather shouldn’t hamper the view.

"We are expecting what clouds we have now to be moving out of the area well ahead of when we expect the eclipse to begin," Robinson said. "We should be looking sat mostly clear skies throughout the region. One thing that might hinder some of the viewing will be the amount of smoke that will be in the area, and that will be dependent on where you're located in relation to the current wildfires."

Robinson provides the timeline for optimum viewing of the eclipse here in Missoula.

"The partial eclipse will begin here in Missoula at 10:15 a.m, and the time of maximum will be at 11:30 a.m, and then it will end at 12:55 p.m.," Robinson said.

The only other impediment would be wildfire smoke, which could get in the way of a good view in the Missoula valley, however, smoke-watchers say the view should still be good for Missoula, as long as you take proper precautions to protect your eyesight during the eclipse.

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