Travis County issues disaster declaration ahead of April 8 total solar eclipse

Travis County leaders issued a disaster declaration on Friday, bracing for the county’s population to double as people visit to view the 2024 total solar eclipse.

This influx of people is expected to increase traffic and put a strain on first responders, according to a press release from Travis County. The declaration, signed by County Judge Andy Brown, takes effect on Friday.

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Issuing a disaster declaration allows the county to “protect the health, safety, and welfare of residents and visitors and position itself for aid and assistance if needed,” according to Friday’s press release.

“This disaster declaration will allow our first responders and public safety officials to better manage traffic and crowds as we anticipate the population to potentially double in size, and we want to ensure everyone can enjoy the total solar eclipse in Travis County,” Brown said in the press release.

County residents expecting to host a private watch party with 50 or more people are asked to inform the county of this gathering by filling out a form online. Informing the county of large gatherings will allow first responders to plan accordingly, the release states.

Bell County officials also declared a disaster declaration last month in preparation for the eclipse.

Tips for Travis County residents ahead of the 2024 solar eclipse

Officials suggested residents take the following actions to prepare for the swarm of people expected to descend on the county:

• Plan ahead for traffic congestion the weekend before and all day Monday, April 8, especially after the eclipse when people leave at the same time.
• Reschedule non-urgent appointments for a different day.
• Get gas and groceries and run errands before the eclipse day.
• Watch the eclipse at home or near your home.
• If traveling to watch the eclipse, plan ahead and download the What3Words app, which can help first responders locate 911 callers in an emergency.

More information about the eclipse can be found on the county’s website, traviscountytx.gov.

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