FRANKLIN, Ind. – The Johnson County Joint Incident Management Team is advising residents of Franklin and Johnson County to prepare for the influx of visitors leading up to the total solar eclipse on April 8.
Because of the rarity of total solar eclipses, many thousands of people will travel to the area to be in the path of totality. It is estimated Indiana may see as many as half a million out-of-state visitors for the eclipse, boosting the state’s population by nearly 10%.
This will lead to unusually high levels of traffic on roadways. Traffic jams will occur, especially after the eclipse is over and people begin to leave to go home.
Officials provide these tips for the weekend before and the day of April 8:
- Plan and avoid being on the roads at these times
- Find a place to watch the eclipse that is in the path of totality
- Make sure your spot has a good sky view, not obscured by trees or other tall objects
- Arrive at your viewing spot before peak travel occurs
Before this event, Mayor Steve Barnett and the City of Franklin advise you to fill up gas tanks, refill routine medications, and make sure you have food so you don’t need to go get groceries. Work remotely or stay home if possible. If you can’t stay home, allow for longer than normal traffic times.
