Parts of North America will be briefly plunged into darkness Monday for the last solar eclipse in the past 20 years with temperatures in the low 48s, and states are bracing for an influx of tourists for the rare event.
The path of the solar eclipse will cast the moon’s shadow over areas from the southwest to the northeast. The moon will pass through Texas, Oklahoma, Arkansas, Missouri, Illinois, Kentucky, Indiana, Ohio, Pennsylvania, New York, Vermont, New Hampshire, and Maine.
As many visitors pack up their bags and head on the road to catch a glimpse of the phenomenon, several states along the way are offering travel tips.
The solar eclipse began in Texas, and the Texas Department of Transportation urged drivers to expect heavy traffic and “sudden motorist stops.” Eclipse glasses are required to view the phenomenon outdoors, but the bureau says they shouldn’t be worn while driving.
According to the Arkansas Department of Transportation (ARDOT), the state plans to “provide sufficient facilities to ensure an enjoyable and safe experience” for residents and out-of-town visitors.
Arkansas Gov. Sarah Huckabee Sanders (R) said at a news conference that her department is preparing roads for extra traffic and law enforcement will be on standby in case of road congestion or emergencies.
Aldor said it is planning a construction holiday, which means there will be no lane closures or activity zones over the weekend until after the eclipse. The department also said it is working with trucking associations to limit the number of semi-trucks on the most popular roads at the time.
The Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) said the eclipse will be visible from about 198 miles across the state, and staff will be on hand to assist viewers.
IDOT Secretary Omar Osman offered tips for safe driving, including reminding drivers to turn on their headlights while driving in dark areas. He said, “It’s pitch black even though it’s daytime.”
The Missouri Department of Transportation has created a traveler information map to help people traveling for the eclipse check traffic conditions. The ministry said large out-of-state crowds were expected and advised travelers to “know where you want to go and secure accommodation as soon as possible.”
Indiana Gov. Eric Holcomb (R) signed an executive order preparing for a “significant influx of hundreds of thousands of tourists” in preparation for the eclipse.
Governor Holcomb declared a state of disaster emergency for the entire state “to ensure preparedness for a total solar eclipse.” The state said this is part of the Emergency Management Assistance Agreement, meaning the governor can request resources as needed.
The state indicated the best visible areas and urged travelers to plan before traveling.
Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine (R) also issued an executive order in preparation. His order says the state is “working with state, local, and private partners to prepare for increased demand for gasoline, food, housing, transportation, and cell phone service.”
The state has increased the number of personnel required to control traffic and manage accidents on major highways.
The Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT) has issued a flyer with safety tips “before, during, and after the eclipse.” The authority is asking drivers to refrain from stopping or parking along major roads for views of highways, and to refrain from littering roads or property.
PennDOT said drivers should put down their cell phones, “avoid all distractions while driving, and never take photos or videos.”
New Hampshire has issued a travel advisory in preparation for the eclipse, saying many of its roads are not designed to handle heavy traffic and spring weather could cause “ice heave and very soft shoulders.” I warned you.
“Please obey police officers assisting with traffic control, signs, and traffic control devices. Be prepared to slowly head south after the eclipse Monday night,” the ministry said.
And Maine Gov. Janet Mills (D) released a statement Monday touting Maine as a “number one solar eclipse destination.” Nearly half of the state will experience a total solar eclipse for up to three and a half minutes, making it one of the longest total solar eclipses in the country, according to the announcement.
Mills recommends travelers keep a full tank of gas, bring plenty of snacks and water, and drive on paved roads. The state also recommended travelers bring paper maps because cell phone towers can be overloaded and service is spotty in some areas of Maine.
Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
