Does an eclipse affect me if it isn't visible where I live? When does its sūtak start?

by tradition, eclipse rules and sūtak apply only where the eclipse is visible; sūtak begins about 12 hours before a solar and 9 hours before a lunar eclipse.

Pañcāṅgas follow a clear principle: an eclipse is observed ritually only if it is visible at your location. If it occurs while the Sun or Moon is below your horizon, there is no sūtak, no temple closure and no fasting for you, even if news channels are discussing it.

Where it is visible, the sūtak (vedha) traditionally begins four praharas — about 12 hours — before a solar eclipse and three praharas — about 9 hours — before a lunar eclipse. Many traditions relax this for children, the elderly, the sick and pregnant women, who may eat and rest normally. Japa and prayer during the eclipse itself are considered especially fruitful, followed by a bath and dāna afterwards.

Check your city's local eclipse timings, and use proper eclipse glasses if you watch a solar eclipse.

Source: Dharmasindhu; Nirṇayasindhu · Solar: ~12 h; lunar: ~9 h before

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