Delays, congestion expected around Aug. 21 eclipse

May 24, 2017

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Road delays, heavy congestion expected in Oregon for the days around the Aug. 21 eclipse

Motor carriers should expect delays and heavy congestion on major and minor highways in Oregon in the days around Aug. 21, when a solar eclipse will affect every part of the state.

The path of totality will cover a 60-mile swath of the state, 338 miles from the Pacific Ocean to Idaho, and will be at least 90 percent total everywhere in Oregon.  

Of particular congestion concern are Interstate 5 and Interstate 84 and other major roads in the path of totality, including U.S. 26 throughout the state, U.S. 97, U.S. 20, U.S. 30, U.S. 101, U.S. 395, U.S. 95, OR 6, OR 18, OR 22, OR 126 and OR 58. See attached map. 

Oregon is expecting as many as 1 million visitors from around the globe for the state’s optimal viewing conditions, with dry August weather, clear skies and limited light pollution.

Some areas will host large group events to watch the eclipse and that could mean clogged state highways in the days both before and after Aug. 21.

To reduce congestion, Oregon is advising eclipse tourists to “Arrive early, stay put and leave late.” Motor carriers also should plan ahead and take steps that could help them avoid major congestion problems.

Travelers may also create hazards by stopping along the road the morning of Aug. 21 as the eclipse darkens the skies. ODOT advises all motorists to avoid stopping along the roadway at the time of the eclipse, which could be hazardous.

If the projection of one million visitors bears out, communities could also see depletion of basic resources like food and diesel fuel, especially in the rural areas. Few, if any, hotel rooms are available.

 

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