Everything you need to know about Monday's eclipse in Toronto

Toronto will see a partial eclipse this afternoon, with the moon blocking over 90 per cent of the sun. Here's what you need to know to safely make the most of what some experts are calling a 'once-in-a-lifetime event.' 

Though the moon won't totally cover the sun over Toronto, a partial eclipse means you should see parts of the sun covered throughout the afternoon. 

Current forecasts anticipate it will be mainly cloudy Monday during the eclipse, which may obscure your view. 

But just as looking at the sun with the naked eye can cause eye damage, experts say looking at the eclipse without approved eye protection can cause serious harm. 

Children are at higher risk of eye damage if they look at the eclipse without proper eye protection, according to the City of Toronto. 

Solar eclipse glasses that are ISO certified meet international standards for protective eyewear. If you purchased glasses online, be sure to look for the 'ISO' marker, or 'CE,' which indicates the eyewear meets European standards. 

Before using your eclipse glasses, the city advises you "check them for any "damage, wrinkles, punctures or scratches." 

If you haven't snagged a pair of protective eyewear yet, you might have a shot going to your local Warby Parker, as the glasses store is handing out a limited quantity of free glasses. 

Those spending the day at the Toronto Zoo will also get a free pair with their ticket, while supplies last. 

You can also try your hand at making your own eclipse viewing tools by making a pinhole projector. 

Pet owners are urged to keep their animals at home for the duration of the eclipse, the Toronto Humane Society says, as large crowds, travel and loud noises may not be ideal for your furry friends. 

Owners are advised to distract their pets from the unusual event outside and not encourage them to look at the sky, said Karen Ward, chief veterinary officer at Toronto Humane Society. 

Toronto Public Library locations are hosting various educational programs for kids who will be at home thanks to the PA day on Monday.  

Available activities include solar eclipse trivia, pinhole projector tutorials and an educational space workshop hosted online. A full list of programming is available on the library web page.