We're anticipating large numbers of people rolling into the region from all over the country, and the world, for this rare event. We've heard the population could easily double, and many people may hang around St. Louis over the weekend to be close and enjoy our local sites. This could make for some interesting times just getting around for regular travel.
There are a number of factors to keep in mind during a total eclipse, so here are some tips for navigating this amazing event:
• Understand totality - Not everyone is getting the total part of this eclipse, but all should have a fine partial view here around midday. The totality zone is limited, and will be packed. To find out if you're in totality and how long, simply type your address into this handy interactive map. Very cool things can happen in totality, such as night animals beginning to chirp and up to a 20 degree temperature drop, so pay attention to what's happening around you as much as what's above.
• DON'T stare at the sun - If you want to view the eclipse, you MUST have safety glasses, proper filters and other ways to observe. Even a little direct sunlight can cause serious eye damage. The ONLY time you can look directly is in FULL TOTALITY. Depending upon where you are, this may last a few seconds (in which case, DO NOT look directly) to max about 4 minutes, so even then, USE EXTREME CAUTION.
• Be sure you have legit eclipse glasses - Scammers are trying to sell glasses which will offer no protection from the sun. Amazon is offering money back for questionable glasses. You also CANNOT look safely through unfiltered telescopes, binoculars or cameras without potentially harming your eyes. Click here for a list of legit glasses, filters and where to find them. For more safety information, visit this page.
• Protect your cameras - Just like your eyes, digital cameras may become damaged by shooting the sun. Phones and other small digital devices are particularly vulnerable. Click here for a list of legit glasses, filters and where to find them. It will be very difficult to shoot a proper photo without certain equipment, so you may wish to leave the picture taking to the pros and just enjoy the event.
• Have a plan - If you decide to venture toward totality, you'll need to plan for heavy traffic and crowded facilities. Head out early and check your route before you go. You should fuel up, bring food with you, and consider the need for restrooms along the way. Most hotels and campsites have been booked for up to a year, and parks will be filled to capacity. Ideally, if you know someone who owns property in the totality zone it would be wise to ask them if you can squat a while.
• Checking the weather - We won't have a clear idea of how clear it will actually be until the 3-day convective outlook. Three days from a particular day is when meteorologists start to develop the best picture of what's to come. So be patient, and don't believe your weather apps until much closer. NOAA.gov has some of the best information and radars available.
• DON'T stop on the road - In some European countries during previous total eclipse events, people decided to simply stop on road sides, and some just parked right in the middle of the street to look up. This behavior obviously shuts down roadways, but it also denies access for emergency personnel to get through. Be sure you have a legitimate parking spot or keep moving.
• Getting Home - Traffic is also expected to snarl when the event ends as everyone tries to leave at once. So hang out a while, have fun and be patient when it's over.
As a side note, it has been suggested that our cell services may get a bit clogged, especially in the totality zone. We recommend passing on the social media shares for that time. Just be present to enjoy everything that's happening.
For more general information and eclipse questions, head over to NASA's FAQ page.
We hope you have a great time observing this rare phenomenon with the safety and comfort of everyone in mind.
-------------
Hey, looking for a cool piece of memorabilia? The USPS has special solar eclipse stamps available for a limited time (shown in the photo above). This is the first stamp ever printed with thermochromatic ink. When heat's applied, the moon appears. Grab some before they're history.
No comments:
Post a Comment