Nebraska’s state agencies and organizations continue to prepare for Monday’s total solar eclipse.
Visitors are expected from around the world, possibly numbering in the hundreds of thousands. Due to the influx of visitors, the State Emergency Operations Center will be open Monday to monitor activity across the state.
Other agencies that are preparing:
Nebraska State Patrol
The patrol will have three aircraft deployed to different parts of the state Monday, focusing on traffic in and around the path of totality.
The patrol also will have extra troopers positioned along Interstate 80. Drivers will not be allowed to park on the shoulder of I-80 or other major highways to view the eclipse.
Nebraska Department of Transportation
Staff members will be on standby along the path of totality and in Omaha to help with traffic control.
For up-to-date traffic conditions, go to 511.nebraska.gov. Also, follow @nebraska511 on Twitter.
Nebraska Game and Parks Commission
Game and Parks has 34 state park areas and 186 wildlife management areas within the eclipse’s path of totality. Visitation at those areas is expected to be busier than normal.
All campsites within those park areas that may be reserved have been booked for months. Many parks are preparing additional areas for primitive camping and parking during the eclipse.
Nebraska Emergency Management Agency
Local emergency management officials across the state have developed plans for the day and have provided information to the state on activities and community needs. NEMA staff will work in the state Emergency Operations Center in Lincoln on Saturday through Monday. For information and links to state agency and federal websites with eclipse information, visit nema.nebraska.gov/operations/2017-solar-eclipse.
Nebraska State Fire Marshal
Staff members will be available to assist local fire departments and first responders’ efforts. Staff members also will be at the state Emergency Operations Center in Lincoln on Monday.
Nebraska National Guard
The Guard has placed units in an elevated level of readiness. The units are trained and equipped to provide assistance in a number of situations if local or state emergency response officials need help.
American Red Cross
Disaster volunteers are prepared in case they are needed in the region. The organization also is monitoring its blood supplies in all locations across the state and nation should a need arise for blood.
