Missouri Expecting Many Visitors to View August 21st Solar Eclipse

Local News

July 21st 2017 by Dee Loflin

MoDOT is preparing for an influx of people traveling on Missouri highways on August 21st. Missourians will have the chance to experience a total solar eclipse mid-afternoon.

The beginning phase of the eclipse will start at approximately 11:45 a.m. when the moon begins to cross over the sun. The time of the total eclipse, when the moon entirely blocks the sun's bright face, will begin at 1:06 p.m. in St. Joseph and travel diagonally across Missouri to Perryville at 1:21 p.m.

After the brief moments of total eclipse, the moon will move off the sun until it completes the process at approximately 2:45 p.m. The only time you can look directly at the eclipse without eye protection is during the time of totality and only if you are located in the path of totality.

Events across the state are planned for this unique astronomical event. An additional 1.2 million people are expected to visit Missouri beginning Aug.18 and leaving most likely by Aug. 22.

Motorists are also advised to expect heavy traffic on Missouri's interstates and all roads inside the area of the total eclipse on Monday, Aug. 21. Extreme congestion is expected once the eclipse passes in the afternoon. Viewers of the eclipse should leave early for their viewing location, stay put and then leave late to avoid the heavy congestion after the total eclipse.

MoDOT has safe driving tips on our website, like: Plan ahead and allow extra travel time to reach your viewing destination. For more safe driving tips click here - http://www.modot.org/eclipse/.

For more information on the eclipse, visit the State of Missouri website - https://www.mo.gov/eclipse/.

Last Updated on July 21st 2017 by Dee Loflin

https://showmetimes.com/Blogpost/v7u3/Missouri-Expecting-Many-Visitors-to-View-August-21st-Solar-Eclipse

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