Kansas Department of Transportation will NOT shut down movement of permitted loads during eclipse
Kansas Department of Transportation will NOT shut down movement of permitted loads during eclipse
Re: Solar Eclipse Event of August 21, 2017
The Kansas Department of Transportation will NOT shut down movement of permitted loads for the eclipse event.
However, KDOT wishes carriers to be aware there is a high possibility of highway congestion related to the eclipse event for the dates of August 19th, 20th, 21st, and 22nd.
Possible areas affected could include routes east of the I-35/I-135/US-81 corridor, with concentrations in the NE corner along US-75, US-36, K-4 among others. Carriers are advised to consider their routing and be aware and prepared for extra traffic.
Other precautions include:
- Carrying extra water, food, medication and comfort items in case extreme delays occur.
Expecting communications issues. Demands on cell phone and other networks will increase and could interfere with service. - Taking extra care during pre-trip inspections. You don’t want tire, engine or other issues to worsen an already tense traffic situation.
- Fueling up – top off well before levels get low.
- Packing patience. Other vehicle drivers are likely to be extra-distracted.
- Planning to cover fewer miles from Aug. 18 to Aug 22. In addition to eclipse traffic, students will return to colleges this weekend. Many colleges begin classes on Aug. 21.
- Headlights on, please – Eclipses create dusk and dawn-like conditions in the middle of the day. Animals – and humans – might react strangely in the changing light.
- MOST IMPORTANTLY – enjoy the experience. We’re told viewing a total eclipse is an experience like no other. Even partial eclipses stick in the memory. Take some time to bask in the wonder of nature and space. It’s good for you.