Madagascar declares Sept 1 holiday due to solar eclipse

A solar eclipse is seen from the beach of Ternate island, Indonesia, March 9, 2016. [Photo/Agencies]

ANTANANARIVO -- Madagascar's government has declared Sept 1, 2016, the day when annular solar eclipse is expected, holiday for health reasons, a statement issued by the government council said on Wednesday.

Information from Madagascar's meteorology services said that the eclipse will begin at 10:59 a.m. and end at 02:29 p.m. during while the moon will block the sun for three minutes and five seconds from 12:48 p.m.

The government warned Malagasy people to wear special glasses to observe the phenomenon.

Madagascar last saw this kind of eclipse on Dec.14, 2001.