Galicia hospital warns of eye injury risk for June 30 solar eclipse

Lola Álvarez Díaz, head of the Ophthalmology Service at the Complexo Hospitalario Universitario de Ferrol, urged the public not to look at the solar eclipse for more than three seconds without certified, undamaged glasses. She highlighted that ultraviolet radiation can cause corneal keratitis, accelerate cataract formation, and produce retinal damage that may appear as blurred vision or a central black spot. Some injuries are reversible within one to six months, while others can be permanent.

Álvarez emphasized that repeated short exposures are less risky, but prolonged viewing—up to 30 minutes—can lead to severe, delayed injuries. She also warned that UV radiation can affect skin cells, so skin protection is also necessary. Physics professor Jorge Mira of the University of Santiago de Compostela echoed the caution, noting the eclipse will trigger unprecedented mass movement of people across Galicia and urging careful planning for the event.

The advice includes using only glasses that meet certification standards, checking for scratches or folds, and observing the recommended exposure limits to avoid lasting eye damage.