Staring directly at the eclipse for just 5 seconds can cause permanent damage

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'There's no cure' for solar retinopathy

A total solar eclipse is one of the greatest natural wonders to behold. However, viewing one without the proper protection can be dangerous, potentially damaging your eyes permanently in as little as five seconds.

In the video above, optometrist Dr. Teddy Chung explains why it's so important to protect your eyes on April 8 and how to tell if your solar eclipse glasses are safe.

Solar Retinopathy Examples

Four examples of how a blind spot (central paracentral scotoma) from solar retinopathy could affect your daily life. (Credits: Top left, Gorgo/Wikimedia/Public Domain; Top right and bottom left, Mark Robinson/TWN; Bottom right, Laura Chouette/Unsplash)

For the latest solar eclipse news, visit The Weather Network's comprehensive hub page.