Skip to Main Content

2017 Solar Eclipse Government Information: US Department of Transportation, FHWA

Facts and useful information about the August 21, 2017 total solar eclipse from NASA and other government agencies.

Eclipse Travel from US Department of Transportation, FHWA

". . . travelers should be at their observation location a minimum of a couple hours before totality. The role of State and local DOTs may include instituting roadblocks or other measures to keep people from making illegal turns as they drive around looking for "the perfect spot" as eclipse totality nears."  (see FHWA's Transportation Fact Sheet for State and Local Departments of Transportation for more details)

See also FHWA's page on the eclipse for additional tips and for detailed travel information by state.

Driving Safety Tips

  • Don’t stop along the interstate or park on the shoulder during the event.
  • Exit the highway to safe location to view and/or photograph the eclipse.
  • Don’t take photographs while driving!
  • Don’t try to wear opaque eclipse glasses while operating a vehicle.
  • Turn your headlights on -- do not rely on your automatic headlights when the eclipse blocks out the sun.
  • Watch out for pedestrians along smaller roads. People may be randomly parking and walking alongside the roadside in the hours around the eclipse to get the best view.
  • Prepare for extra congestion especially on the interstates in the path on the day before, day of and day after the eclipse.
  • Avoid travel during the eclipse or in the area of the main path if you can.

(Source:  U.S. Department of Transportation, Federal Highway Administration)

FHWA News

Make your travel plans safely

The closest opportunity Ohioans will have to experience the total eclipse is by traveling to Kentucky.

(Source:  eclipse2017.org, via FHWA)

A message from the FHWA