Solar eclipse to blanket the area in darkness later today
While it won’t be a total eclipse of the sun, the Joplin area will see near totality later today, nearly 95 percent, when the eclipse hits the area.
Remember to have the proper safety wear if you are planning on looking at the eclipse. Regular sunglasses are not suitable. You must have specialized eclipse glasses.
If you are traveling, remember to have a plan in place and be prepared for congestion on the roadways as well as public spaces in the path of totality. If you are on the road during the eclipse, you are reminded to obey all traffic laws and avoid the following:
- Don’t stop along the interstate or park on the shoulder.
- Find a safe location to view the event and get there early.
- Don’t take photographs while driving.
- Turn your headlights on and do not rely on your automatic headlights.
- Prepare for extra congestion, especially on interstates, on the day before, day of and day after the eclipse.
- Watch out for increased pedestrian traffic along smaller roads. People may randomly park and walk alongside roads in the hour before the total eclipse to get the best viewing.
- Avoid travel during the eclipse or in the area of the path of totality if you can.
- Never wear eclipse glasses when driving a car or operating a boat.
- Make sure your vehicle is in good condition and has a full tank of gas.
- Bring along water and snacks in your vehicle.
The path will cross over into north central Arkansas south of Fort Smith and north of Texarkana and stretch northeast to Mountain Home and Jonesboro beginning at 1:45 p.m. and ending around 2 p.m.
In Missouri, the path of totality will stretch across the southeast portion of the state, a 115-mile stretch moving over Poplar Bluff before exiting Missouri at Cape Girardeau.
SIDE NOTE: Some local establishments offering special deals for the eclipse—Burger King is offering BOGO Whoppers on the app, Pizza Hut is offering $12 any large pizzas, Smoothie King, Sonic and Applebee’s are offering eclipse-themed drinks.