North Texas County Issues Disaster Declaration for April Solar Eclipse

Solar eclipsePhoto byPexels photo by Drew Rae

Some joked about Austin declaring a disaster declaration for the solar eclipse on April 8, 2024. Now another county has declared a disaster declaration in Dallas. 

Kaufman County in North Texas decided on Wednesday, March 27 that the solar eclipse is too much to handle.

The Kaufman County Emergency Management Coordinator Steve Howie said according to NBC 5 Dallas: 

"Our current population is somewhere around 200,000. We're expecting another 200,000." 

"We can't handle 400,000 vehicles and people in this county in one quick spurt like that. So, it's a huge concern."

It is expected that the partial solar eclipse in North Texas will begin at 12:23 p.m. until 3:02 p.m. A complete solr eclipse will last from about 1:40 p.m. until 1:44 p.m., depending on the location.

Travis Houston, the new director of the City of Dallas' Office of Emergency Management was planning for the eclipse said according to Fox 4:

"The one thing we know 100% sure is the moon will pass over the sun, and it will get dark. But there are a lot of other variables, we are always looking at what is the worst case scenario. If you plan for that, an you hope for the best, That is our whole philosophy in emergency management."  

Travis County made the decision two weeks ago and declared  disaster declaration according to Fox 7. 

To ensure you can see the solar eclipse without hurting your eyes, make sure you order the solar eclipse glasses. There are many available on Amazon that you can purchase for as little as $2 for one pair. Most solar glasses are sold in sets. 

Residents are encouraged to plan ahead.

• avoid making stops at gas stations
• watch for traffic congestion
• run errands before or after the eclipse
• schedule non-important events on a different day

Do you think a disaster declaration is needed?