Some Texas officials are recommending that residents stock up on essentials before the upcoming total solar eclipse, an event visible from select parts of the state that line up with the path of totality.
With thousands of visitors expected to pour into the Lone Star State to enjoy the April 8 total solar eclipse, Mike Jones, Director at Hays County Office of Emergency Services, said residents should load up on groceries and fuel to avoid the anticipated crowds. Both Dripping Springs and Wimberley are two Hays County towns that will lie within the path of totality, offering premium views of the rare event.
“This influx of people into Hays County will demand tremendous support and resources to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for all. Hays County Office of Emergency Services is dedicated to working with our local partners: police, fire, EMS, business owners, chambers of commerce, municipal entities, and others to help residents and visitors have the most enjoyable, safest experience possible,” read an announcement on the Hays County website.
Jones’s advice is likely prudent. Airbnb said searches for accommodation in the eclipse’s path have surged 1,000%.
And it is not just groceries for people you should be focused on. Kerr County Judge Rob Kelly said the influx of visitors could not only strain hospitals and bring a jump in traffic, but it could “drain our food and fuel supplies and strain our city and county infrastructure to, quite possibly, over capacity,” per Newsweek. Judge Kelly is so concerned about the impact that he issued a disaster declaration earlier this month and suggested pet owners maintain adequate food for their animals.
Travis and Kendall counties have similarly issued declarations, aiming to unlock additional law enforcement funding.
Like Hays County, Dallas similarly lies in the shadow of the eclipse. In fact, as previously reported by The Dallas Express, the Big D will enjoy one of the longest viewings of the total solar eclipse of any location in North America.