Get ready — eclipse tourists are coming to NE Ohio

WJW
·2 min read

[Watch previous FOX 8 News coverage on the April 8 total solar eclipse in the player above.]

NORTH RIDGEVILLE, Ohio (WJW) — Northern Ohio is the place to be for the total solar eclipse on Monday, April 8. Communities like North Ridgeville are right in the middle of the path of totality, and can expect about 4 minutes and 20 seconds of dusk.

Lorain County is expecting about 1 million visitors for this once-in-a-lifetime event, who will likely arrive the weekend before and stay through Tuesday, according to a Friday news release from city officials.

28 Ohio parks with the best view of the eclipse

That could lead to:

  • Traffic congestion, road closures and detours

  • Shortages of food, gas and supplies

  • Longer wait times at hospitals, gas stations and elsewhere

  • Overburdened cellular service in the area

Also, some businesses, child care services and schools may close or have already planned to close for the eclipse, according to the release. North Ridgeville City Schools, Lake Ridge Academy and Saint Peter School will all be closed on April 8, according to the release.

City officials are urging residents to start preparing now for the influx in eclipse tourists by:

  • Making sure vehicles are gassed up prior to the weekend, and maybe even keeping a spare gas can

  • Stocking up on water, food and other essentials, including prescription medication

  • Avoiding travel “unless absolutely necessary”

  • Having extra batteries on hand

These schools will close for the total solar eclipse

“The North Ridgeville Police Department is prepared to serve our community to the best of our ability during this historic event,” reads the release. “Our dispatch center will likely receive an influx of calls, please be patient and understand that our calls for service will be prioritized. Our police department employees will be working extended hours to provide our community with the service it has come to expect and deserves.”

Residents are urged to follow the city’s Facebook page for the latest updates on eclipse planning.

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