Strain on local resources expected during eclipse

An increase in traffic as well as business is predicted from people passing through

By DON WILBURN

donaldfwilburn@gmail.com

Residents in smaller towns and cities along the path of totality for the upcoming April 8th eclipse are being advised that an inux of visitors traveling through town from east to west could cause an increase in traf_c, fuel shortages, and strain on other resources such as groceries and gasoline.

It has been projected that a large number of people will be traveling from Mississippi, Tennessee, and even Kentucky to witness the rare celestial event with some towns predicting a 24 hour doubling of their population. While tourists are expected to bring economic bene_ts to the region, of_cials are advising residents to be prepared for potential disruptions.

Residents of West Memphis and Marion may soon _nd themselves in the midst of the traf_c inux as well as the total solar eclipse approaches. While the cities are not directly in the path of totality, its convenient access to the I-40 and I-55 bridges means that many travelers, more than usual, will be passing through on their way to prime viewing locations.

The increased traf_c is expected to bring a slight uptick in business for local hotels, restaurants, and shops. Southland Casino is also preparing for an inux of visitors as people make their way through town.

One factor that may hopefully alleviate some of the traf_c congestion is the completion of repairs on the I-55 bridge. The repairs are expected to be _nished before the eclipse.

Bell County in Texas, for example, has already issued a local state of emergency in anticipation of the surge in visitors and strain on resources such as _rst responders, hospitals, and food supplies. Although Lawrence County is not expecting a state of emergency to be declared, residents should still anticipate possible traf_c delays, road closures, longer wait times at restaurants,

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congestion, delayed emergency response, cell service interruptions, and possibly heightened stress levels during the influx of tourists. Residents are being encouraged to stock up on essential supplies to ensure they have what they need during the event.

The path of totality for the eclipse is set to begin in Mexico and pass through states including Texas, Oklahoma, Arkansas, Missouri, Illinois, Indiana, Ohio, New York, Pennsylvania, Vermont, New Hampshire, and Maine before heading out over the North Atlantic. Portions of Kentucky, Michigan, and Tennessee will also catch a glimpse of the solar eclipse.

Even though the increased traffic and strain on resources may cause some disruptions, officials emphasize that this situation is not a grave emergency and recommend that residents remain calm yet prepared for the potential challenges of hosting large numbers of visitors during the eclipse.