Solar eclipse sparks scramble for protective glasses across Europe

A rare total solar eclipse is prompting a frantic hunt for protective eyewear across Europe, with pharmacies and opticians struggling to keep glasses in stock. Spain, where the path of totality passes, is facing the most acute shortage, with many stores reporting they have sold out or run out. Madrid's National Museum of Natural Sciences distributed two million free glasses through a government campaign, but many pharmacies still have supplies, generally selling certified glasses for €3-€4 a pair.

Carles Sisquella, an optical shop owner in Barcelona, said his store has been out of stock for 10 days. Doctors warn that looking directly at the Sun during a solar eclipse can damage the retina. In Brussels, where the eclipse will cover about 90 percent of the Sun, customers have been racing to find glasses, with some pastry chefs and opticians managing to secure last-minute shipments.

France's partial eclipse has led to varying supply situations, with some pharmacies having sold out and others still receiving shipments, charging higher prices. In Portugal, the Club da Visao network, which offered free glasses, has seen supplies run out at many locations. Authorities in Spain have withdrawn six models of glasses from sale due to eye injury risks.