On April 8, 2024, people across Indiana will enjoy what for many could be a once-in-a-lifetime experience - a total solar eclipse that will be visible over much of the central part of the state. Citizens, state and local governments, schools, and community organizations have been preparing for this event for years, and we all hope for clear skies that day!
While the eclipse will last only a few minutes, a huge influx of visitors from around the country (and world) are expected throughout the path of totality that day. Whenever that many people gather, especially in smaller communities that may lack services and infrastructure, there are likely to be challenges. Expect traffic jams, and possibly temporary shortages of supplies such as groceries.
If you live in or near the path of totality, prepare by filling your vehicle with fuel, and have plenty of groceries on hand for a day or two. If you need to travel, leave early! Or simply stay at home and view the eclipse from there (while wearing correct eclipse glasses!). Regardless, don't miss the show! The crowds will be gone in a few hours, but the next total eclipse visible in the United States won't happen until 2044!
Many agencies and organizations have dedicated websites highlighting the eclipse and associated events. INPREPared has provided links to some of these below. Please visit any of these sites to learn more about this incredible event!
Purdue University's "Total Solar Eclipse" page highlights university sponsored or affiliated activities, including viewing events at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway and campus locations. Also, Purdue experts provide video insights ranging from why you should experience the eclipse to the amount of traffic to expect.
Purdue Extension's eclipse site features community planning resources for the event, that is expected to bring many thousands of visitors to the state. In addition, Extension's site discusses agrotourism opportunities for farm families in the path, and includes links to a variety of other resources.
NASA provides plenty of information on safely viewing and preparing for the eclipse in your home and community. The site discusses the science behind the eclipse, and articles and activities for all ages are available. And, if you can't make to view the total eclipse in person, NASA will livestream the event.
The Indiana Department of Homeland Security includes plenty of safety information for residents and visitors to the state for the eclipse. Detailed information about preparing travel plans are included, along with a countdown clock that is measuring the exact amount of time before the eclipse begins in central Indiana.
Teachers can find a huge variety of eclipse-related educational resources at the Indiana Department of Education site. Resources are available for kindergarten students through 12th grade. Both classroom and hands-on activities that strengthen STEM skills for all ages are featured.
Visit Indiana highlights places to go and where to stay for this historic event. Many communities throughout the state are hosting festivals and activities on the day of and even before the eclipse, and Indiana's tourism website features many of these entertainment opportunities.
To really experience the eclipse, you need to be outside. And in Indiana we're fortunate to have many state parks, nature preserves, and fish and wildlife areas within or near the zone of totality. Many of these sites will have special events for the eclipse. The Indiana Department of Natural Resources highlights all the great opportunities at state properties.
If you need more information contact: inprepared@purdue.edu.
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