The Niagara region in Canada has taken a proactive step by declaring a state of emergency ahead of a rare total solar eclipse scheduled for April 8.
This decision was made anticipating large crowds gathering in and around the region’s renowned waterfalls.
According to a statement released on Thursday, Regional Chair Jim Bradley declared the state of emergency “out of an abundance of caution”.
“Declaring a state of emergency … strengthens the tools the region has at its disposal to safeguard the health and safety of residents and visitors and protect our critical infrastructure in any scenario that might arise,” a Niagara region press release declared.
Niagara Falls, located along the Canadian-U.S. border, is set to experience the total solar eclipse, drawing attention from people who are booking hotels and rentals in advance to witness the phenomenon at one of North America’s natural wonders.
Mayor Jim Diodati of Niagara Falls, Ontario, anticipates the largest crowd ever on the Canadian side for the eclipse, estimating up to a million attendees compared to the usual 14 million visitors throughout an entire year.
To manage the influx of visitors, the region plans to adjust its programs and services, as well as close certain facilities to minimise traffic congestion on April 8.
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