In just two weeks, New York State will be in the path of the much-anticipated Total Solar Eclipse, and Governor Hochul, along with state officials, are leaving no stone unturned in preparing residents for this celestial event. With meticulous planning that began 18 months ago, the state is gearing up to handle hundreds of thousands of visitors expected to flock to New York to witness the eclipse.

The eclipse is predicted to take around two hours to pass across the entire state, providing only a brief window for spectators to experience the totality. To help alleviate potential congestion on the roads, state authorities are urging residents and travelers to allow ample travel time and exercise patience. Commisioner Jackie Bray of the Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Management has revealed that the state is dispatching heavy tow trucks and help trucks from the Department of Transportation to assist drivers in need. For real-time updates on road conditions, residents are encouraged to utilize the 511NY service.

Additionally, to ensure the smooth flow of traffic and accommodate emergency vehicles, those planning to park while witnessing the eclipse are asked to park only in designated areas. State officials advise minimizing travel on the day of the eclipse whenever possible.

For those seeking to immerse themselves in nature by visiting state parks during this unique phenomenon, it is important to note that the campgrounds are already 100% sold out for Sunday and 93% booked for Monday, the day of the eclipse.

Safety remains a top priority, and residents are advised to purchase specially designed eclipse-viewing glasses to protect their eyes while viewing the eclipse. It is crucial to select glasses that are certified effective and safe.

Visitors from outside of New York are encouraged to arrive early and stay late to ensure they have ample time to experience the eclipse. The state has even created a dedicated website offering eclipse-related merchandise, glasses, and a curated music playlist.

However, state officials caution that cell phone service may be overloaded due to the influx of visitors during the eclipse. Despite this potential issue, emergency calls to 911 will still be operational.

As the countdown to the Total Solar Eclipse continues, preparations are underway in various sectors. Several schools have opted to close for the day to allow students and staff to witness this extraordinary phenomenon. Law enforcement agencies are gearing up to handle traffic, and even popular supermarket chain Wegmans is closing select stores for half an hour to give employees the opportunity to view the eclipse.

Excitement is building across New York State, with residents securing their eclipse-viewing glasses and eagerly anticipating this celestial spectacle that will take place in just a few short weeks.