28 March 2024
TOPEKA, Kan. (KSNT) — The Kansas Department of Transportation (KDOT) and the Kansas Highway Patrol (KHP) are advising travelers to plan ahead for the solar eclipse.
According to KDOT, traffic is expected to increase for the eclipse happening on April 8.
“Remember that the shoulders of highways and interstates are for emergencies only,” said KHP Capt. Candice Breshears. “Finding a safe and secure location to view the eclipse is a must for all travelers to make it to their destinations safely.”
People are eagerly anticipating the arrival of a total solar eclipse set to blanket much of the U.S. in darkness. This is the last time such an event will appear above the U.S. for the next two decades, with the next total solar eclipse set to appear on Aug. 23, 2044.
KDOT says travelers should be patient, avoid distractions and practice safe driving habits.
Earlier this month, KSNT News spoke to a man planning to travel to Texas for the eclipse. Shawnee County resident Dan Fellers, 74, said he plans to avoid the interstate by taking side roads only the entire time to avoid crowds and traffic jams. Driving during the event can be dangerous as many people will be distracted by the eclipse.
“Pay attention to the roadway, not the sky,” said KDOT Director of Safety Troy Whitworth. “Be on the lookout for other drivers who may be distracted. Traffic will most likely be heavy before, during and after the event in the locations where the eclipse can be viewed. So, plan your travel accordingly.”
The eclipse will be completely viewable from parts of Mexico, the U.S. and Canada in April. To see the full eclipse next month in the U.S., you’d have to go to Oklahoma, Arkansas, Missouri, Illinois, Kentucky, Indiana, Ohio, Pennsylvania, New York, Vermont, New Hampshire or Maine. Learn more about the eclipse by clicking here.
(Credit: NASA’s Scientific Visualization Studio)
KDOT advises wearing eye protection during the eclipse, checking and planning accordingly, and dressing properly for potential weather incidents. For more information on road conditions, visit kandrive.org here or call 511.