New yorkers search "my eyes hurt" at record levels after solar eclipse

New Yorkers Search “My Eyes Hurt” at Record Levels After Solar Eclipse

by
April 9, 2024

NEW YORK, NY – Following yesterday’s solar eclipse, which cast shadows across 13 states with its totality and was partially visible throughout the U.S., New Yorkers were among the top searchers for eye discomfort. Despite repeated warnings from the National Solar Observatory about the dangers of directly observing the sun outside of totality, when the moon fully obscures the sun, New York ranked fourth nationwide in searches related to eclipse-induced eye pain.

Payless Power analysis, utilizing Google Trends, reveals a nationwide spike in concerns over eye health post-eclipse. Searches for “My eyes hurt” increased by 502%, while those specific to discomfort after viewing the eclipse surged by 5,740% in the last 24 hours. This data suggests a widespread dismissal of expert advice to wear protective eyewear during the eclipse.

In New York, searches for “my eyes hurt” after the eclipse saw a significant rise of 2,606%, placing New Yorkers high on the list of those potentially impacted by not heeding safety warnings. This increase is part of a broader trend across 25 states, with New Yorkers’ heightened interest in eye health issues post-eclipse reflecting a broader disregard for eclipse-viewing precautions nationwide.

Phil Stilton

Phil Stilton

Phil Stilton is the Editor and Publisher of Shore News Network, an independent digital news organization covering New Jersey, national politics, public policy, public safety, and community affairs. With years of experience reporting on local government, elections, law enforcement, and issues impacting residents throughout New Jersey, Stilton has built a reputation for delivering timely news, in-depth reporting, and accountability journalism.

As the founder of Shore News Network, Stilton oversees editorial operations, investigative reporting, and breaking news coverage while working closely with journalists, public officials, and community leaders. His reporting has covered municipal government, state politics, federal policy, public records investigations, emergency management, and major news events affecting local communities.

Stilton is committed to factual reporting, source verification, transparency, and providing readers with accessible, accurate information that helps them better understand the issues shaping their communities. Through Shore News Network, he continues to focus on delivering trusted news coverage and original reporting to audiences across New Jersey and beyond.

For story tips, corrections, or media inquiries, readers can contact Shore News Network through its official website and social media channels.