Arkansas Governor Declares State of Emergency Ahead of 2024 Solar Eclipse

Governor Sarah Huckabee Sanders Releases Funds, Increases Security

Preparations Underway for Unprecedented Event

LITTLE ROCK, Ark. - With less than a month to go until the 2024 total solar eclipse, Arkansas Governor Sarah Huckabee Sanders has declared a state of emergency and released $100,000 from the state's Response and Recovery Fund to prepare for the expected influx of visitors and ensure public safety.

The eclipse, which will occur on Monday, April 8, 2024, is expected to draw hundreds of thousands of visitors to Arkansas, particularly to the path of totality, which will cross the state from northeast to southwest. In preparation for the event, Governor Sanders has authorized increased security measures, including additional state troopers and a "two-to-one ratio of cameras to visitors" in the path of totality.

"We want to ensure that everyone who comes to Arkansas for the solar eclipse has a safe and enjoyable experience," Governor Sanders said in a statement. "We will have a significant law enforcement presence in place to keep our communities safe and to help manage the increased traffic and crowds."

In addition to the security measures, the Arkansas Department of Transportation (ARDOT) is working to improve roads and bridges in the eclipse path and to ensure that traffic flows smoothly during the event. ARDOT will also be providing real-time traffic updates and information on closures and detours.

Tourism officials are expecting the eclipse to have a significant economic impact on Arkansas, with businesses in the path of totality reporting increased bookings for hotels, restaurants, and other services. The eclipse is also expected to attract a large number of amateur and professional photographers, as well as scientists and researchers.

For more information on the eclipse and preparations underway, visit the following resources:

• Arkansas Governor's Office - 2024 Solar Eclipse
• Arkansas Tourism - 2024 Solar Eclipse
• Arkansas State Parks - 2024 Total Solar Eclipse