Solar Eclipse: Chief Meteorologist Scott Dean explains what you need to know

WILMINGTON, NC (WWAY) — This is the first coast-to-coast total solar eclipse in the U.S. in 99 years.

The last time the Carolinas had a major solar eclipse was on May 30, 1984.

Chief Meteorologist breaks down what exactly is a solar eclipse and offers safety tips.

The path of totality on Aug. 21 — where day briefly becomes night — will pass over Oregon, continuing through the heartland all the way to Charleston, South Carolina. Those on the outskirts — all the way into Canada, Central America and even the upper part of South America — will be treated to a partial eclipse.

The last time a total solar eclipse swept the whole width of the U.S. was in 1918.

Join us Monday at 2 p.m. for our special eclipse coverage. It will stream live on WWAYTV3.com and our social media platforms so you can take it outside with you and interact with us. You won’t want to miss it!