Indianapolis, IN – Indiana is set to witness a spectacular astronomical event on Monday, April 8, as the first total solar eclipse in seven years graces its skies.
The eclipse will be visible across a significant portion of the state, with the path of totality extending from Evansville to just outside Fort Wayne. It will enter the state’s southwest region at 3:01 p.m. EDT/2:01 p.m. CDT, traversing northeastward before exiting at 3:12 p.m. EDT/2:12 p.m. CDT. Additionally, parts of Indiana will experience a partial eclipse, with at least 90 percent totality, from around 1:30 p.m. EDT/12:30 p.m. CDT to 4:30 p.m. EDT/3:30 p.m. CDT.
An estimated 4 million residents within the path of totality, alongside numerous visitors, are expected, potentially causing significant traffic and congestion. Hotspots for eclipse viewers include Vincennes, Bloomington, Franklin, areas north of Richmond, Indianapolis, and Evansville.
To navigate this extraordinary event, the Indiana Department of Transportation (INDOT) and the Indiana State Police (ISP) advise careful planning. They recommend researching viewing sites, preparing for traffic delays, and ensuring road trip essentials, including solar eclipse glasses, are on hand. During the eclipse, it’s crucial to avoid stopping on highways, use headlights, and refrain from using mobile devices while driving. After the event, patience and adherence to law enforcement directives are emphasized for a safe journey home.
To assist travelers, INDOT will minimize road closures and suspend oversize and overweight permits. For real-time traffic updates, the public can utilize INDOT’s TrafficWise via its mobile app or the website 511in.org. Further information about the eclipse in Indiana can be found at eclipse2024.in.gov, visitindiana.com/eclipse2024, greatamericaneclipse.com/indiana-2024-eclipse, and science.nasa.gov.
