Monday, April 29, 2024
The City of Gatesville has issued a declaration of emergency and disaster to prepare for the total solar eclipse that is expected to bring an influx of visitors to the area on Monday.
Mayor Gary Chumley signed the declaration on Wednesday, which is effective immediately for seven days unless extended by the Gatesville City Council.
Because the population is expected to double, if not triple in size, the city could experience severe traffic congestion in the days leading up to and following the eclipse. Over-capacity on roads and highways could put a strain on local infrastructure and resources, including emergency response teams, hospital systems, and cause grocery and fuel shortages.
“The declaration better allows city personnel to look after public interest, safety, and well-being,” Chumley said.
With the declaration, the city can request state assistance if needed regarding emergency services and supplies.
Coryell County also expects to issue a declaration of local disaster ahead of the total eclipse. Mayor of Killeen, Debbie Nash-King, issued a local state of emergency for the City of Killeen on Tuesday.
The declaration says it will allow the Gatesville Chief of Police to temporarily close city streets for public safety reasons. The city will also temporarily allow boondock camping in Faunt Le Roy Park for the event.
Gatesville, along with other Central Texas towns, is in the path of totality for the total solar eclipse. The first contact of the eclipse is expected to occur at 12:19 p.m. and reach totality by 1:36 p.m.
The National Weather Service currently predicts partly cloudy conditions and a chance of thunderstorms in Gatesville on April 8. Although cloudy weather can affect viewing conditions, many parts of the eclipse may still be visible to viewers.
Despite weather forecasts, Chumley urges residents to still take precautions by being aware of increased traffic and to avoid traveling on Monday afternoon. He adds to fuel up vehicles and to purchase sufficient groceries, medications, and supplies in advance of the event.
“We have to operate under the assumption that we will see an eclipse,” Chumley said.
