Hotel prices in Europe jump before total solar eclipse

Europe is bracing for a surge in hotel prices ahead of the total solar eclipse visible from the continent for the first time this century. Hotel rates have skyrocketed in key European cities as hundreds of thousands of tourists flock to witness the celestial event. In Reykjavík, Iceland's capital, rooms have cost double the usual rate, with tourists shelling out an average of $793 (£587) on Wednesday, a staggering 98% increase compared to last year's same day.

Spain is also preparing for a significant influx of eclipse-watchers, with the finance ministry forecasting 460,000 overseas visitors to view the eclipse in person. Room prices in A Coruña and Mallorca have risen by 135% and 24% respectively, while in Santiago de Compostela and Bilbao, they have increased by 34% and 67%. Accommodation in rural areas and makeshift observatories has been booked months in advance.

Authorities in Spain are concerned about potential fire risks due to exceptionally dry conditions, warning of the possibility of devastating forest fires and traffic congestion that could hinder emergency vehicle access. To mitigate these risks, Spain has deployed 35,000 police officers and tightened regulations on activities that could generate sparks.

In the UK, the US space agency NASA has set up four telescopes in north-west Spain to livestream the eclipse to over 10 million viewers, with a partial solar eclipse visible across the country, peaking at 7.12pm in London.