Solar eclipse sparks scramble for protective glasses across Europe

A rare total solar eclipse across parts of Europe has triggered a frantic rush for protective eyewear, with pharmacies, opticians and stores struggling to keep up with demand. Spain, in particular, reported many shops running out of certified glasses, which are essential for safely viewing the eclipse. The National Museum of Natural Sciences in Madrid had exhausted its supply, as had some pharmacies in central Madrid.

Optician Carles Sisquella in Barcelona had been out of stock for 10 days, leaving many people unable to find glasses. French supermarket Carrefour's Spanish unit reported demand for eclipse glasses had increased twentyfold in recent days compared to the same period last month. In Brussels, where about 90% of the sun would be covered, people were also racing to find glasses, with opticians and pharmacists reportedly out of stock.

The shortage has prompted eye specialists to warn against using uncertified alternatives, as direct solar viewing without approved filters can damage the retina. Authorities in Spain have withdrawn six models of unsafe glasses from the market, advising the use of only certified eyewear.