Editor’s note: This story Dallas Morning News coverage of the 2024 total solar eclipseFor more information dallasnews.com/Solar Eclipse.
Police say people heading into downtown Dallas on Monday afternoon, the day of the total solar eclipse, may see temporary “patrol” road closures on major highways.
Dallas police said in a social media post that “rolling” closures would affect freeway exits heading into downtown from approximately 1 to 2 p.m. Police said drivers leaving downtown would not be affected and exits leaving the area would remain open.
The closures encompass the downtown area and affect sections of Interstate 35E, Interstate 30, Interstate 345 and the Woodall Rogers Freeway, including its connector with U.S. 75, according to a map provided by Dallas police.
Authorities said traffic congestion is expected on highways and roads across the city, especially in the late afternoon as the eclipse ends and people leave their viewing locations.
In Dallas, the moon will begin to cover the sun at about 12:23 PM, begin to completely cover the sun at about 1:40 PM, and end about four minutes later. The moon then moves away from the sun, and the spectacle ends at about 3:02 PM. Exact times vary depending on your location in Dallas-Fort Worth.
Dallas officials are urging residents to plan their visit early, as the city is expected to be overrun with tourists, and to stay off city roads during the eclipse if possible.
Officials urged people who must travel to leave early and be prepared to stay late, and advised residents not to look at the sun without protective eyewear or drive while wearing eclipse glasses.
Dozens of events are planned for the historic event. Monday will mark the first total solar eclipse visible in North Texas since 1878. The next time a total solar eclipse will be visible in North Texas will be in 2317.
