- Ohio is taking a number of precautions in preparation for Monday’s total solar eclipse as it expects an influx of up to 500,000 tourists.
- Republican Gov. Mike DeWine has already activated the Ohio Emergency Operations Center starting Sunday to prepare the Buckeye State to assist communities with any issues that may arise during the celestial event.
- “Again, this is just a precautionary measure. We think it’s prudent to be prepared,” DeWine said of the measure.
Ohio is taking all precautions to prepare for Monday’s total solar eclipse, which could draw hundreds of thousands of visitors.
“I have to say, we don’t always have a lot of time between events,” Ohio Emergency Management Agency Director Sima Merrick said at a news conference Friday. “Really? The fact that it’s been 200 years in the making has been very beneficial.”
Gov. Mike DeWine will activate the Ohio Emergency Operations Center starting Sunday to operate before, during and after Monday’s celestial event to help communities respond to any issues that arise.
Solar Eclipse 2024: Fox Weather presents special coverage of “Total Solar Eclipse”
Adding 100,000 to 500,000 tourists to the state’s existing population could put a strain on government agencies. “We plan to have the National Guard on standby throughout the weekend.”
“Again, this is just a precautionary measure. We think it’s prudent to be prepared,” he said.
Republican Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine wears solar eclipse glasses while speaking with reporters at the Ohio Emergency Operations Center on Friday, April 5, 2024, in Columbus, Ohio. DeWine activated the center Friday to help the community before, during and after Monday. A total solar eclipse could draw hundreds of thousands of tourists to the state. (AP Photo/Julie Carr Smith)
Many other state agencies (the state departments of Transportation, Public Safety, Health, and Natural Resources, the Ohio State Highway Patrol, and the Ohio National Guard) are also all on standby at emergency operations centers, most of which are dedicating resources to emergencies. It is rapidly increasing. event.
While emergency officials are viewing the eclipse as if it were a major weather event, the Department of Natural Resources has announced that large-scale fireworks displays will be held simultaneously at each of 23 state parks and five wildlife refuges. Watching as if it were being held. Director Mary Martz said: All 300 of the state’s commissioned wildlife officers are scheduled to begin work this weekend. An extensive park program to coincide with the solar eclipse begins Saturday, including hundreds of activities and viewing events.
Ohio is cutting back on highway construction projects heading into Monday to maximize lanes to accommodate traffic congestion, Transportation Secretary Jack Marchbanks said. Officials encouraged travelers to pack extra snacks and water for both themselves and their pets. Mobile phone charger. Also create a paper roadmap in case of cell phone service interruptions.
Besides traffic, another big risk associated with a solar eclipse is eye damage. Marchbanks also pointed out that people shouldn’t drive while wearing eclipse glasses.
Col. Charles Jones of the Ohio State Highway Patrol recommended “planning, preparation and patience” regarding the eclipse. He said stopping along a highway to watch the eclipse is illegal and dangerous.
CLICK HERE TO GET THE FOX NEWS APP
DeWine said even if travelers aren’t staying overnight, they may consider delaying their return for a few hours after the eclipse to help spread out crowds and traffic.
