A total solar eclipse fascinated millions of viewers on April 8, 2024, as they gazed upon a historic event that only occurs approximately every 20 years in the contiguous U.S. Although the majority of the country experienced a partial solar eclipse, other areas in the states of Texas, Oklahoma, Arkansas, Missouri, Illinois, Kentucky, Indiana, Ohio, Pennsylvania, New York, Vermont, New Hampshire, Maine, and small parts of Tennessee and Michigan were within the path of totality, as the moon completely blocked the sun.
Due to the anticipation of an influx of visitors in these areas, many states declared a state of emergency to better facilitate emergency responses. In Texas, the effect of congested roadways and large crowds was compounded by a severe weather threat following the eclipse, causing enormous safety concerns. Other cities reported concerns over terror threats due to the massive crowds.
Although millions across the U.S. were able to witness the astronomical phenomenon, states recognized the need to prepare in order to lessen the strain on public safety resources.
Date of event: April 8, 2024
Impact:
- A total of 15 U.S. states located in the path of totality. (NASA)
- Approximately 31.6 million people living within the path of totality. (CBS)
- Approximately 150 million people living within 200 miles of the path of totality. (CBS)
Related Resources:
- Solar Eclipse Communications Planning and Resource Guide
- Solar Eclipses: Planning Resources [Updated August 2023]
- Mass Gathering Security Planning Tool
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