INDIANA, USA — Indiana officials are warning Hoosiers as hundreds of thousands of people are expected to flock to the state to catch a glimpse of the first total solar eclipse in seven years.
On Monday, April 8, 2024, many counties across Indiana will be within the path of totality and those in the path will get to witness a total solar eclipse.
RELATED: Places you can drive to from Louisville that will be in the path of the 2024 total solar eclipse
Nearly 4 million Hoosiers live within the path of totality, with hundreds of thousands of people expected to visit Indiana for the solar eclipse.
Indiana State Police (ISP) and Indiana Department of Transportation (INDOT) officials are warning locals of increased traffic and congestion as residents and tourists alike make their way to eclipse viewing destinations.
Areas near the eclipse centerline are anticipated to see the greatest influx of visitors, including Vincennes, Bloomington, Franklin and just north of Richmond. Indianapolis and Evansville are also included in the path.
To avoid getting stuck in traffic during the eclipse, INDOT and ISP officials are urging drivers to plan ahead and prepare for potential travel impacts before, during and after the eclipse
Safety tips for before the eclipse
- Research your viewing site, considering accessibility, parking and crowd size. Check INDOT TrafficWise on the mobile app or at org to plan your route and monitor traffic conditions. Plan to arrive to your destination early.
- Anticipate increased traffic and congestion, especially in areas in or near the path of totality.
- Reach your destination safely -- buckle up and put your phone down while driving.
- Pack plenty of snacks and water, as well as charging cables for electronics and mobile devices, in the event you or your group become stranded.
- Make sure your vehicle has a full tank of gas and top off fluids before you head out in case you’re stuck in traffic for a long period of time. Use this eclipse-ready checklist for more road trip essentials.
- Don’t forget your solar eclipse viewing glasses! You will need specially designed glasses to avoid damage to your eyes.
Safety tips for during the eclipse
- Avoid travel during the eclipse or in the main path if possible.
- Exit the roadway to stop and view the solar eclipse. Do not stop along highways or park on the shoulder for viewing.
- Do not take photos or videos while driving. Indiana is a hands-free state. Holding mobile devices such as smartphones or tablets while driving is prohibited by state law.
- Do not wear eclipse glasses while driving.
- Turn on your headlights. Do not rely on automatic lights.
- Watch for pedestrians, especially along secondary roads.
Safety tips for after the eclipse
- Plan your post-event transportation method well in advance. If celebrating, ensure everyone has a safe and sober way to return home. Designate a sober driver or arrange for alternate transportation.
- Exercise patience when leaving your viewing location as traffic may be heavy. Follow instructions from law enforcement or emergency personnel and be considerate of fellow drivers. Stay put and stick around to avoid the post-event rush.
- Clean up after yourself and dispose of trash in designated receptacles or take it with you.
- Once again, check INDOT TrafficWise on the mobile app or at 511in.org to plan your route and monitor traffic conditions.
When are where the solar eclipse will be in Indiana
The path of totality will span from Evansville near Louisville in southern Indiana, to Fort Wayne in northern Indiana. The total eclipse will start in the southwest portion of the state at 3:01 p.m. EST and end in northeast Indiana at approximately 3:12 p.m. EST.
Other parts of Indiana will experience a partial eclipse of at least 90% totality from approximately 1:30 p.m. EST to 4:30 p.m. EST.
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