Europe will witness a rare total solar eclipse today, marking the first such event visible across the continent since 1999, according to Arab media reports.

The total solar eclipse will be visible from parts of western Spain and Iceland. In Iceland, near the path of totality, the Sun is expected to be completely covered for around 2 minutes and 18 seconds.

Several major European cities will experience a near-total eclipse. Madrid and Barcelona are expected to see around 99% of the Sun covered, while the eclipse will reach approximately 92% in Paris, 91% in London and 85% in Berlin.

Parts of Africa, Canada and the United States will also experience a partial solar eclipse.

However, skywatchers in Pakistan will not be able to see the event. According to the Pakistan Meteorological Department, the eclipse will take place at night in Pakistan and will therefore remain below the horizon.

The eclipse will begin at 8:34pm Pakistan Standard Time, reach its peak at 10:46pm and end completely at 12:58am.

A solar eclipse occurs when the Moon passes between the Earth and the Sun, temporarily blocking some or all of the Sun’s light. A total eclipse occurs when the Moon completely covers the visible disk of the Sun for observers within the narrow path of totality.

The astronomical calendar will feature another major event later this month. A partial lunar eclipse is expected on August 28, but it will also not be visible from Pakistan.

Astronomers advise people watching solar eclipses to use certified eclipse glasses and never look directly at the Sun without proper eye protection.