Researchers have issued warnings about the potential dangers of increased traffic and the spectacle of the total solar eclipse set to occur on Monday. Previous eclipses have shown a concerning trend of fatal collisions, with a 31% increase in fatal traffic accidents recorded during the 2017 total eclipse and the days surrounding it.
Surprisingly, the spike in accidents was not directly linked to the eclipse's moments of darkness but rather to the hours before and after the event when people are traveling to and from their observation spots. Law enforcement agencies are bracing for what is expected to be a significant surge in road traffic during the upcoming eclipse, with estimates suggesting that the event will be akin to having multiple Super Bowls happening simultaneously in terms of traffic volume.
The upcoming eclipse is anticipated to draw around 5 million travelers, with the path of totality passing through several major cities, including Toronto, Houston, and Chicago. The event is expected to attract millions of spectators, with NASA estimating that 31.6 million people already live within the path of totality.
During the 2017 eclipse, road traffic fatality rates increased significantly, with fatal accidents occurring at a higher frequency during the three-day window surrounding the event. The study highlighted a 50% higher risk of fatal accidents just after the totality phase of the eclipse.
Law enforcement and municipal officials have been diligently planning for the event, focusing primarily on traffic safety measures. In anticipation of the influx of visitors, additional state troopers will be deployed to assist with traffic control and ensure public safety.
Efforts are being made to mitigate the potential risks associated with the increased traffic, including strategies to manage congestion, maintain communication networks, and facilitate emergency response. Some cities are encouraging spectators to remain in town after the eclipse to alleviate traffic congestion and enjoy post-event entertainment.
As the nation prepares for this rare celestial event, authorities are urging caution and vigilance on the roads to ensure the safety of all travelers and residents during the total solar eclipse.
