NEWS RELEASE
Idaho Office of Emergency Management
For immediate release July 21, 2017
Contact: Elizabeth Duncan
(208) 258-6595 eduncan@imd.idaho.gov

Total Solar Eclipse Expected To Draw Unprecedented Numbers of Visitors

Individuals Urged to Plan Ahead and Prepare for Delays

 

BOISE – In one month Idahoans and visitors to the Gem State will witness a once-in-a-lifetime event. The August 21, 2017 total solar eclipse will cross 19 Idaho counties. Due to the unprecedented number of visitors expected to come to Idaho to view the event, individuals and families are being urged to plan ahead, prepare for traffic delays and have a family communications plan.
“Idaho is considered one of the best places to view this event,” said Idaho Governor C.L. “Butch” Otter. “While we want Idahoans and visitors to our state to enjoy this event, we want to make sure everyone stays safe and has a plan, including being prepared for traffic delays and crowds. I can’t encourage folks enough to stay informed. That’s why we have resources available so you can do that now.”

To view and print out an Idaho Eclipse Family Checklist, and view an eclipse public service announcement, go to the Idaho Office of Emergency Management (IOEM) webpage https://ioem.idaho.gov/
“The eclipse will happen at the peak of fire season in Idaho,” said Brad Richy, who leads IOEM. “We cannot stress enough the importance of motorists not pulling off to the side of the road to watch the eclipse. Vehicles can easily ignite grass fires, creating a hazard for emergency responders and other motorists.”

In planning and preparing for this event, IOEM conducted workshops this spring in multiple counties along the eclipse path. They were focused on transportation and emergency routes, statewide interoperability, emergency services and public messaging. IOEM continues facilitating weekly Idaho Eclipse Working Group meetings with State and federal partners.
In the path of totality the moon completely covers the sun and the sky darkens dramatically, making it appear to be nightfall. Idaho is considered a prime viewing area because skies are generally clear throughout the state this time of year.

With a path of totality of more than 300 miles, Idaho is one of 14 U.S. states over which the eclipse will cross. The total solar eclipse begins in Oregon and exits the continent in South Carolina.

 

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The Idaho Office of Emergency Management is a Division of the Idaho Military Division. The services we provide are to facilitate emergency management in Idaho, and to assist neighboring states. The men and women of this Division are dedicated to their mission of protecting the lives and property of the people of Idaho, as well as preserving the environmental and the economic health of Idaho.

 

Original Release