Nashville's local news and NPR station

No, You Should Not View The Solar Eclipse From The Interstate

By

TDOT officials remind drivers to take off their eclipse glasses after the event. Credit: Paul DeansTravelQuest International
Share:

TDOT is discouraging Tennesseans from trying to chase a view of next week’s eclipse on the interstate, whether to dodge clouds or lengthen the viewing time. Emergency responders aren’t sure what to expect, but they’re worried about the potential for gridlock or even chaos.

Transportation officials are pushing out videos on social media, warning that the rules of the road still apply during the once-in-a-lifetime celestial show.

“Remember, it is illegal to park on the shoulder of interstates and state highways for any reason other than an emergency,” TDOT spokesperson Heather Jensen says.

TDOT estimates that Tennessee is the closest place in the country for 55 million people to take in the eclipse. And it’s impossible to know how many could flood into the path of totality.

Firefighters are lining up ATVs in case they do have to get around jammed up interstates. But TDOT is telling drivers to find somewhere — anywhere — off the highway to park and enjoy the show. And after the eclipse, transportation officials have another reminder — take off those super dark shades for driving.

Filed Under: WPLN News Tagged With: ,

Nashville Public Radio in your inbox

Sign up to get the NashVillager each weekday morning.

Blake Farmer, Host, This Is Nashville

Blake Farmer is the host of “This Is Nashville,” the flagship weekday show of Nashville Public Radio. Previously, Blake spent 16 years at WPLN News, serving as host, editor and news director. Before a two-year radio hiatus with a Nashville-based healthcare company, Blake was one of the country’s most prolific healthcare audio journalists. He produced stories for both local and national programs, extending the reach of his reporting through a partnership with KFF Health News. Outside of work, Blake can be found running or biking on roads that other Nashvillians consider too busy for such activities. So far, he has always made it home to his wife of 20 years and two children.

on-air light On Air - 90.3 WPLN-FM

Loading schedule...