Moisture depletion in the surface layer in response to an annular solar eclipse

► Changes observed during the annular solar eclipse of 15 January 2010 are reported. ► Around the annular phase, the skin temperature decreased by 7 °C. ► The most remarkable change is observed in water vapor field. ► The lowest relative humidity during 10 day period is associated with the eclipse. ► The drying up of the surface layer is owing to enhanced subsidence.