Arkansas Declares State of Emergency Ahead of 2024 Solar Eclipse
Governor Allocates Funds for Preparedness Measures
Natural State to Host Celestial Event in Two Years
LITTLE ROCK (KATV) — Governor Sarah Huckabee Sanders today declared a state of emergency and released $100,000 from the Response and Recovery Fund to prepare for the 2024 solar eclipse. The natural phenomenon will occur on April 8, 2024, and is expected to bring a surge in visitors to the state.
In a press release, the governor said the declaration will allow state agencies to take necessary steps to ensure the safety and well-being of Arkansans and visitors during the eclipse.
"Arkansas is proud to be the host site for this once-in-a-lifetime event," Huckabee Sanders said. "We want to ensure that all Arkansans and visitors have a safe and enjoyable experience."
The declaration will allow the Arkansas Department of Emergency Management to coordinate with local governments, law enforcement, and other agencies to develop and implement emergency response plans.
The solar eclipse will be visible in its totality across a narrow path that will stretch from Mexico to Canada. Arkansas will be one of the few states that will experience the total eclipse, which will last for about four minutes.
The state is expected to see a significant influx of visitors for the eclipse, with some estimates predicting that up to 2 million people could travel to Arkansas to witness the event. The Arkansas Department of Parks and Tourism is working with local businesses to prepare for the influx of visitors.
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