Communities across Ohio are preparing for the 2024 Solar Eclipse, which will pass through much of Ohio on April 8, 2024.
The state of Ohio has compiled a helpful map of the eclipse’s path and information on activities and events that will be occurring in the counties that will experience the mid-day dimming. Many Ohio State Parks will be holding programs and allowing camping during the weekend and day of the eclipse.
The eclipse will reach totality a little after 3pm (~3:10pm) in the southern half of the state and a just a few minutes later (~3:14pm) in the northern half.
Thousands of Ohioans and visitors are expected to drive into the areas of the state where the eclipse will be visible.
Ohio’s Emergency Management Agency has been preparing for the eclipse, including receiving a $1 million allocation from the state legislature to help communities keep residents and visitors safe during the eclipse. In addition to encouraging viewers to use eclipse glasses, the Emergency Management Agency offers other sensible recommendations on how to stay safe during the eclipse. Eclipse chasers should expect heavy traffic, cellphone outages (due to the concentration of cellphones in use) and lots of crowds.
Providing programming and clear festival and viewing areas in local communities can help keep crowds under control while also creating opportunities for increased commerce fom visitors and residents. We hope all communities in the line of the eclipse take advantage of the opportunity to show off their community and have some fun! Contact your county emergency management agency to find out what local and state resources are available to help ensure the eclipse is a great experience for everyone.