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City of Clarksville urges Motorists to prepare for Solar Eclipse

Clarksville Police Department, Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office gears up for rare skywatching event August 21st

City of Clarksville - Clarksville, TNClarksville, TN – Unless you’ve been hiding under a rock, you’re probably aware that a total solar eclipse is coming through Clarksville on August 21st, 2017.

The Clarksville Police Department and the Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office want residents and visitors alike to be prepared for traffic challenges that may result from the wave of visitors and the midday darkness created by this rare astronomical occurrence.

2017 Solar Eclipse in Clarksville

The 2017 Great American Eclipse will be the first coast-to-coast eclipse in 98 years and the first in the continental United States since 1978. Lasting more than an hour, the sun will slowly be covered by the moon, engulfing the area in total darkness. Then, the process reverses and the world slowly returns to light.

The epicenter of the eclipse is less than 30 minutes away from Clarksville-Montgomery County, and this community is in the area known as the “path of totality.” From here, at 1:27pm CDT observers will get 2 minutes and 18 seconds of total darkness.

Since this community offers a unique front-row seat to experience this phenomenon, local tourism officials estimate up to 200,000 visitors will pour into town. Special skywatching events are planned at Liberty Park, Austin Peay State University, Beachaven Winery and other venues.

More than 200 local law enforcement officers will be out in force August 21st to ensure safety and provide travel assistance.

CPD and MCSO offer these tips for motorists to assist with movement along the roadways throughout the community:

  • With events and a large number of visitors, anticipate heavy traffic and congested roads.
  • Plan your trip ahead of time, and reach your destination early. If possible, avoid being on the roadways from noon to 3 p.m. during the solar eclipse.
  • Be prepared for traffic delays as many visitors may be on the move to “chase the eclipse.” The day will require awareness and patience.
  • Follow traffic laws. The arrival of a solar eclipse does not negate the need to follow rules of the road.
  • Traffic flow may be constricted, so reduce speeds and allow more stopping distance. Obey traffic signals or the directions of officers.
  • Map out your route before you start your trip. Manipulating a GPS, phone, or other directional device while driving is not only illegal, but can potentially cause a crash. Stopping in the road or pulling off on an unauthorized area is not a viable option. Traffic flow must not be impeded.
  • Ensure your vehicle is roadworthy. Fill your fuel tank before you venture out because there may be long lines at gas pumps; check all fluid levels and your vehicle’s spare tire.
  • Have an emergency kit and plan; make sure family members or friends know your schedule and have a plan in case something happens
  • Stop or park only in authorized areas. Sidewalks, shoulders of the road, private property, and areas near intersections are not legal stopping or parking areas.
  • If you have a non-injury crash, pull off the roadway and wait for officers.
  • Call 911 for emergency medical aid or law enforcement assistance.
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