We are just 4 weeks away from the total eclipse. Red River County and surrounding counties are the prime location for viewing the eclipse which means there could be an influx of people in the area.
This increase of people in areas will undoubtedly have an effect on the residents’ daily life. Although the eclipse is on a Monday, many people coming to the area may arrive as early as the Thursday before.
Here are a few suggestions to help you prepare for this once-in-a-lifetime event:
1. Expect an increase in traffic. If you are going out that weekend or the day of the eclipse, give yourself some extra time to get to your destination. And watch for signs as some towns are talking about rerouting traffic and turning some streets to one-ways.
2. Go grocery shopping before Thursday, April 4th, and fill up your gas tank.
3. Go to the ATM and withdraw some cash. Banks will be busy also. ATMs will be busy. It’s always good to have some cash on hand, and ATMs do not hold unlimited cash.
4. Be prepared for cell service interruptions. With the predicted increase in visitors it could affect cellular and internet services.
5. Get your prescription medications filled before April 4th.
6. If you are attending one of the local events, be courteous to your fellow eventgoers. This is a time to show all these visitors how friendly we are. Also, don’t litter. Let’s keep our community clean!
7. Local businesses and restaurants WILL BE VERY BUSY. Be patient with employees at businesses. You may be used to walking into a local restaurant, immediately being seated, and getting your food quickly, but this weekend will be crazy, so expectations should look a little different during this time.
8. Be sure you have some eclipse viewing glasses to safely watch the eclipse. Many local businesses have these for sale.
9. I have seen some great t-shirts and hats online commemorating this event. Instead of giving your money to a company outside , shop local. There are a ton of places here selling eclipse apparel and souvenirs.
10. Have fun! On average, it takes 375 years for a total solar eclipse to occur in the same location. This really is a once-in-a-lifetime event.
We just want everyone to be prepared and aware.