State of emergency declared at Niagara Falls as 1 million visitors expected for solar eclipse

A "state of emergency" has been declared in the Niagara region of Ontario, Canada, due to the approximately 1 million visitors expected for the solar eclipse.

Niagara regional authorities announced that preparations have begun due to the approximately 1 million visitors expected in the area after Niagara Falls was identified as "one of the best places to view" the total solar eclipse on April 8.

Stating that preparations will be made for situations such as traffic congestion, increased demand for emergency services, and overloading of mobile phone networks, officials announced that a "state of emergency" has been declared in the region.

Mayor Jim Diodati had stated that the city's 1-day visitor count would reach a record level.

The total solar eclipse on April 8 will be visible from Mexico, the eastern regions of the US, and southeastern Canada, but will not be observable from Turkey.

The last solar eclipse in the Niagara region was observed in 1979.

WHAT IS A SOLAR ECLIPSE?

A solar eclipse is a natural phenomenon observed when the Moon, during its orbital motion, passes between the Earth and the Sun, thereby partially or completely obscuring the Sun.

News Source: AA