With more than one million visitors expected in South Carolina for the total solar eclipse, representatives from state agencies urged residents to plan ahead.
“Wherever you want to be when this event occurs, don’t be on the road. Don’t be rushing,” said Major General Robert Livingston with the state’s Adjutant Generals office. “It’s going to be a historical event, treat it like that.”
On August 21, the eclipse will pass through the continental United States, traveling from the coast of Oregon to South Carolina. Columbia has been acknowledged as one of the top cities for viewing the event.
Total Eclipse Weekend, Columbia, S.C. website lists facts and midlands-area events surrounding the event. Below the site, details why Columbia has been acknowledged as one of the top cities to view the event.
At 2:41 p.m. on Monday, August 21, 2017, visitors and residents who have gathered in the greater Columbia, S.C., area will experience the longest period of 100% total solar eclipse for a metro area on the entire East Coast of the United States: ranging from 2 minutes and 30 seconds to 2 minutes and 36 seconds of totality, compared with the national maximum of 2 minutes and 41 seconds that will be visible in smaller communities in the Central United States.
The joint news conference was held at the South Carolina Emergency Operations Center (SCEMD) in West Columbia. Director Kim Stenson said residents should prepare to have what they need to enjoy the event and to stay off the roads if possible.
“Make sure they’ve got enough water and sunscreen, not just for themselves, but for the rest of the family. It’s important to plan ahead.”
Stenson directed residents to the SCEMD website for public safety tips for the day.