Tens of thousands of people in the United States experienced nightmarish traffic jams as they returned home from viewing the total solar eclipse, a once-in-a-lifetime celestial event. After the totality ended on Monday, viewers took to the roads, causing significant slowdowns across the country. In states like Indiana, which was almost completely covered by the totality, traffic ground to a standstill on major highways like Interstate 65 and 67, with drivers pulling off into rest stops to watch the event, leading to capacity issues and backups.
Illinois also experienced severe slowdowns and reports of crashes after the eclipse passed, according to the state’s Department of Transportation. Vermont roads were nearly empty during the eclipse but quickly filled up afterward, causing traffic jams in the Burlington area. In Ohio, photos showed long lines of cars heading back into the city on US 23, while Michigan saw significant traffic as people rushed to catch the eclipse in Ohio, resulting in massive jams on Interstate 75.
In Arkansas, traffic began to build as soon as the eclipse ended, further exacerbating congestion on the roads. In New York City, intersections became jammed during the eclipse as people filled the streets to catch glimpses of the sun, leading to frustrated drivers honking their horns as they navigated through the crowds. Overall, the total solar eclipse led to widespread traffic issues as people across the country tried to make their way back home after witnessing the rare event.
The traffic in various states was a result of drivers trying to catch the eclipse before or after its totality. In Indiana, Illinois, Vermont, Ohio, Michigan, Arkansas, and New York City, roads became congested as people made a last-minute dash to view the eclipse or immediately left their viewing spots once the totality had ended. This influx of drivers caused major slowdowns and backups on highways and city streets, leading to frustration among both commuters and spectators.
Law enforcement agencies were tasked with managing the traffic jams and ensuring the safety of drivers during the post-eclipse rush. Indiana State Police Sgt. John Perrine reported that many drivers had pulled off into rest stops to watch the eclipse, resulting in capacity issues and delays as they rejoined the highways. Departments of Transportation in various states were also monitoring the situation closely and working to clear any accidents or obstructions that occurred as a result of the congestion.
Overall, the total solar eclipse event brought together people from across the country to witness a rare and awe-inspiring celestial phenomenon. While the traffic jams experienced after the eclipse may have caused inconvenience for many drivers, they were a testament to the widespread interest and excitement generated by the event. As viewers made their way back home from their viewing spots, they were met with traffic slowdowns and congestion on the roads in several states, highlighting the impact that the eclipse had on transportation systems and the need for proper planning and coordination in such situations in the future.
