A total solar eclipse will be visible across the United States on April 8, offering a spectacular view of the rare phenomenon — and states are preparing for potential disruptions.
An eclipse will pass over Mexico, the United States and Canada on April 8, according to NASA. A total solar eclipse occurs when the moon passes between the sun and Earth, completely blocking the face of the sun. During this time, the sky will darken, as if it were dawn or dusk.
For the first time in decades, New York state will be in the path of totality for the eclipse. It means hundreds of thousands of people are expected to visit to see the phenomenon. Those cities include Niagara Falls, Buffalo and Rochester.
Now, officials in New York are warning that existing cellular networks could be negatively impacted on the day of the eclipse, and possibly in the days before.
There are some concerns for the area due to massive influx of population, according to the New York State Police — such as transportation disruptions, delays to emergency services, the potential for stranded motorists, an increase in fuel, food, and water demand, an increase in 911 call volume, and gridlocked traffic.
The state police are also warning of overloaded cellular networks due to high volume.
“Have cellphones charged and bring chargers with you,” the state police suggested to visitors and residents in the state.
Officials offered other safety tips, like fueling and charging up the day before the eclipse event, shopping for food and water the day before and keeping extra supplies in your vehicle, and avoiding the roadways after the event.
The state police suggested, if possible, to stay in the region the night of the event. And if you’re from out of the area, don’t use a vehicle that can’t travel for 10-plus hours without charging, as stranded EVs in traffic will be towed.
