Safely navigate solar eclipse

For most millions of Americans, the upcoming solar eclipse on April 8 will be a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

At least two solar eclipses occur every calendar year, but most are only seen in small slivers of the world. And while the occurrences of total solar eclipses are rare, the frequency of them taking place in the same place happens far less often. On average, it takes approximately 375 years for a total eclipse to occur again at the same location. 

The eclipse will first be seen in the U.S. in Texas and will cross through portions of Midwestern states, including Missouri, Kentucky, Illinois, Indiana, Michigan, Ohio and Tennessee. America’s eclipse experience will conclude with the part of the path of totality continuing through states like Pennsylvania, New York, Vermont, New Hampshire and Maine.

Find out how much of the eclipse you’ll be able to see from where you are by visiting this link from NASA: eclipse-explorer.smce.nasa.gov/?year=2024

For areas in the eclipse’s path, the occurrence is creating plenty of excitement. However, the event is also certain to create some disturbances on roadways.  Here are some tips to maximize safety and enjoyment during the eclipse:

• Plan ahead. Communities in the path of totality are likely to be flooded with visitors. Even communities that are unaccustomed to heavy traffic volume should anticipate crowded roadways. As visitors may not be familiar with their surroundings, expect a level of erratic driving with cars suddenly braking and making turns.

 • Lights on. It’s going to be dark. For the few minutes during totality, anticipate the sky to be as dark as if it were dawn or dusk. However, anticipate visibility to be impacted throughout the nearly three hours the eclipse is partially occurring in your area. Drivers should use the use their headlights and adjust driving behaviors as they would during other times of limited visibility.

• Eye on the road. As with any time behind the wheel, keep your attention on the road and the task of driving. Avoid taking photos or videos while driving. While eclipse glasses are stylish and cool to wear, don’t wear them while driving. 

• Park & enjoy. We all want to check out the eclipse but do so safely. Pull off the road and park in a safe, legal location to check out the eclipse. Don’t put yourself and others in danger by parking along roadways, highways or interstates.

• Leave unharmed. Good eyesight is the utmost importance for anyone those who drive for a living. Leave your eyes unscathed by the sun by wearing proper eye protection while viewing the eclipse.

• Be flexible. Depending on your location, the eclipse could occur during prime working hours. Check ahead to ensure your destination, as well as any stopping points along your route, will be operating as usual. The April 8 eclipse is rare and should be enjoyed by everyone. With proper planning, the event can be enjoyed safely by all.

The eclipse is rare and should be experienced by everyone. With proper planning, the event can be enjoyed safely by all.