01/04/2024
Get ready! The Total Solar Eclipse is coming up in
ONE WEEK!
Monday, April 8, 2024
Partial eclipse begins around 1:55pm
Total solar eclipse (totality) begins around 3:10pm
Totality duration: approximately 3 minutes and 45 seconds
Partial eclipse ends around 4:26pm
See exact times of partiality and totality for your location on the map here
Regarding Indian Lake:
Many businesses and locations around the lake were impacted by the tornado on March 14. As a result, we are asking anyone who made plans to spend time in the Indian Lake region to reach out to their hosts or event planners to ensure they can accommodate you.
As of March 29, Indian Lake State Park has reopened (with the exception of Fox Island); boats are able to access the lake with some safety modifications and buoys added in certain areas. Please check the Indian Lake State Park page for additional details.
While some businesses remain closed, those that are open would greatly appreciate your support and patronage - and not just during the eclipse!
You can support the relief effort by donating to the United Way Indian Lake Tornado Relief fund.
THE BASICS
• Logan County is in the path of totality for the Total Solar Eclipse on April 8. The path runs northwest across the U.S. and is only about 100 miles wide. The next total solar eclipse to pass through Ohio will not occur until 2099; the next to pass through Logan County will not occur until 2444.
• We are expecting an influx of visitors that may double or triple our population that day. This is based on feedback and data from communities in the path of totality during the recent eclipse across the U.S. in 2017.
• Hey Logan County: this is a great opportunity to show off our community to a lot of people! Visitors will be eating, shopping, and staying the night - and there are plenty of ways to capitalize on this additional traffic through Logan County.
Our recommendations for residents:
• Buy essential groceries and fill your gas tank by this Friday in case supplies run low on eclipse day. Consider having cash on hand this weekend in case network connections are strained and card readers become difficult to use.
• Purchase your eclipse glasses this week! These glasses are specialized to enable you to look at the eclipse without risk of eye damage. Don't try to view the eclipse without them!
o Both Chambers of Commerce have glasses available for purchase and you can find them at many local retailers. Many event hosts are also providing eclipse glasses if you purchase tickets or make reservations.
• If possible, consider staying close to home on 4/8 due to anticipated traffic congestion throughout Logan County.
o Join together with your neighbors to host a block "watch party" or fun activity!
Pass this info along to any visitors!
• Plan your route in advance and have a backup navigation method (paper map or printed directions) if your phone won't load GPS info.
o Don't pull off on the side of the roadway! This will impede traffic and could cause injuries to you or other drivers.
o Keep off of private property unless you've made arrangements with the owner. And be mindful of where you're parking, especially if the terrain is muddy or soft, as you run the risk of getting stuck for several hours.
• Keep your gas tank filled and keep in mind the needs of everyone traveling with you when packing. Understand that traffic may cause long delays in your travel; plan accordingly by packing additional snacks, medication, batteries/chargers, water, blankets & clothing, etc.
• Have a family communication plan and a "meeting spot" selected at your viewing location so you know where to head in the event you get separated from your friends or family. If you are traveling with children, ensure they have your phone number in case they are separated from you and can't find you.
Could your business benefit from additional eclipse traffic?
Our recommendations for restaurants, retail, and others:
• If you're not typically open on weekends/Mondays, update your business hours for the eclipse weekend on Google, Facebook, etc.
• Have cash on hand in case network connections are strained and card readers become difficult to use.
• Make sure you have signage encouraging visitors to stop in - something as simple as "Welcome Eclipse Visitors!" will help our guests see you're open for business.
• Ensure your parking for customers (and employees) is clearly marked.
• Restaurants: offer a buffet, limited menu, and/or grab-and-go items - anything to help streamline customers that day.
o PS: Consider planning some fun food or drink specials around the eclipse theme!
• Retailers: think about what visitors would want to purchase (Logan County swag, perhaps) and stock up on those items.
• Additional recommendations for various types of businesses, including lodging, grocery stores, and gas stations are available here.
Our recommendations for all other businesses:
• If employees will be onsite at your business on 4/8, expect:
•
o Traffic delays resulting in late arrivals and potential parking issues (depending on your location)
o Internet and wireless connectivity issues
• If your business typically receives deliveries on 4/8, reschedule them if possible.
• Additional recommendations for various types of businesses, including lodging, grocery stores, and gas stations are available here.
WANT MORE UPDATES?
Visit locoeclipse.com for additional details. You can find information on eclipse events, viewing locations, and areas for camping throughout Logan County.
Please forward this message to friends, colleagues, and anyone who needs details on this once-in-a-lifetime event.
