Arkansas Gov. Sarah Huckabee Sanders: "The Countdown is on" to the April 8th 2024 Solar Eclipse

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In just over a month, crowds from across the nation and beyond will converge on Arkansas to witness the Great American Eclipse.

Governor Sarah Huckabee Sanders and several state agency heads affirmed their readiness for the anticipated surge of visitors on April 8, announcing their preparations during a joint press briefing in Little Rock on Monday.

"The clock is ticking," Sanders remarked, highlighting Arkansas's proactive stance toward what promises to be a significant day for the state.

Recognizing the eclipse as one of the largest events in Arkansas's history, Sanders underscored the extensive planning undertaken by state bodies such as the Division of Emergency Management (ADEM) and the Department of Public Safety (DPS) over the preceding months.

Sanders assured Arkansans that comprehensive measures were being implemented not only to ensure safety but also to foster an enjoyable experience. She detailed how the Department of Transportation (ArDOT) was optimizing roads for increased traffic and emphasized the readiness of the Arkansas State Police (ASP) and the National Guard to handle any emergencies that might arise.

Colonel Mike Hagar, DPS secretary, clarified that while the 2024 solar eclipse itself posed no direct threat, meticulous planning was crucial to identify and address potential risks.

ADEM Director A.J. Gary highlighted ongoing efforts to synchronize contingency plans across various state entities, emphasizing the continuous operation of the State Emergency Operations Center to provide timely assistance before, during, and after the eclipse.

Gary stressed ADEM's thorough consideration of diverse scenarios, including the possibility of cellular network disruptions, severe weather, and fuel shortages.

Sanders expressed a commitment to ensuring a positive experience for first-time visitors, aiming to encourage their return to Arkansas in the future.

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