By Tom Latek
Kentucky Today
Up to a half million visitors are expected to converge on a largely rural expanse of western Kentucky for optimal viewing of the August 21 solar eclipse.
Kentucky Emergency Management Director Michael Dossett said his office has been working with local officials in a 21-county area to prepare for the influx of people.
“Before leaving home, plan a specific destination for viewing off the road, such as a park or other reserved location,” Dossett advised would be visitors. “With a spike in traffic anticipated, planning ahead is a must to enjoy the event.”
Ten counties are expecting between 100,000 and 500,000 visitors starting about three days before the eclipse. Another 11 counties are getting ready for the crush of traffic as people travel to and from the total eclipse area.
Hotel, lodges and campgrounds are largely booked up throughout the region.
At two minutes and forty seconds, astronomers say the Christian County area will have the longest duration of totality, making it the most attractive viewing zone. While the eclipse will be visible in 14 states, the path from Carbondale, Ill., to the Hopkinsville area is expected to have the best viewing.
The total eclipse begins at 1:20 p.m. CDT. A partial eclipse starts about an hour earlier, and will end about an hour after the period of totality.
Climate data suggests Kentucky and Tennessee have the least likelihood of cloud cover that might block viewing.
Dossett said visitors should also be prepared for typical hot and humid weather conditions with the potential for severe storms.