A total solar eclipse is a rare event that occurs only once in the same place every 400 years. The next solar eclipse will be taking place on Monday, April 8th. During the eclipse, the sky will grow dark for a period of time as the moon passes directly between the sun and earth. While having the opportunity to witness a total solar eclipse is exciting, precautions are required to observe it safely.
New York State is expecting record crowds to travel to our state for optimum viewing. The moon’s shadow completely covers the sun and WNY will experience total darkness for a few minutes beginning after 2 pm depending on your location. Jamestown, Buffalo, Rochester, Syracuse, Watertown and Plattsburgh are all in the path of totality.
Here are some safety tips and scenarios to consider in advance of the eclipse that OPWDD has gathered to help you and the people you support experience the total solar eclipse safely:
- Expect extended traffic delays. Only travel on Monday April 8, 2024, if you absolutely must. Anticipate high traffic volume and give yourself plenty of extra time to get to work as roads may be congested.
- Stock up on food and supplies early and plan ahead as items may be limited due to the high demand. Lines for local services such as restaurants, gas stations, grocery stores and retail stores may be longer than usual.
- Consider re-scheduling errands & appointments. Schedule your errands and appointments in advance, or after Monday April 8, 2024. Some services and businesses will be closed or have limited hours on Monday April 8, 2024. Check your child’s school district to see if their school will be closed on Monday, April 8th.
- Keep cell phones and laptops charged. With the increased number of visitors, local public safety officials anticipate cellular service may become overwhelmed (primarily on Monday, April 8, 2024) or have limited access. Utilize landline numbers. Know the landline number to your Safety Department and OPWDD’s Communication Center: 855-696-7933. Cell phone networks may experience disruptions due to increased usage. It is recommended that you have a family communication plan and an emergency meeting place in case you get separated.
- Keep vehicles fueled. Make sure program vehicles are fueled well in advance.
- Have flashlights and extra batteries at the ready.
- Ensure the operability of durable Medical Equipment for service recipients with special medical needs.
Additional things to keep in mind the day of the eclipse:
- Do not look directly at the sun during the eclipse.
- Sunglasses will NOT protect your eyes.
- If your eyes are exposed to the sun without the appropriate protection, it can cause “eclipse blindness,” which can temporarily or permanently damage your eyes.
- Ensure any viewing glasses used have the rating of (ISO) 12312-2 certified eclipse glasses from a trusted source.
Parent Network of WNY would like to thank the Buffalo Science Museum for providing our staff with protective glasses to experience the eclipse.
Be safe and have an amazing time experiencing the solar eclipse!
