On April 8, a total solar eclipse will cross North America, passing over Mexico, the United States, and Canada. On this date, people within a 124-mile-wide band in the state of Ohio will experience a total solar eclipse.
The City of Bowling Green, and surrounding county, is within this band. This is will be an exciting celestial event, but what does this mean for the community? Do you really need to prepare? Why are they closing schools? Are businesses closing that day?
Community members are encouraged to attend a presentation given by Jeff Klein, director of the Wood County Emergency Management Agency. This will be an opportunity to learn how the solar eclipse may impact the community, have questions answered, and gather important tips on how to prepare for this rare event.
The presentation will take place on Feb. 28th, at 6 p.m. in the Wood County District Public Library Atrium. Limited quantities of solar eclipse glasses will be available for attendees. No registration necessary.
The Wood County Emergency Management team has been planning for the eclipse, along with several community partners, under the recommendations and guidance from the Ohio Emergency Management team.
Bowling Green and surrounding areas are expecting travelers from around Ohio and other states to visit the areas of totality. Challenges that eclipse viewers and residents may expect include:
• Heavy to gridlocked traffic conditions before and after the eclipse.
• Travelers stopped on roadways (heat, water, food, bathroom challenges).
• Limited cell phone service due to heightened network use.
• Potentially limited food and gasoline availability on the routes due to an influx of travelers.
