Missouri was supposed to be the prime location to view the total solar eclipse of the sun on April 8. The path of totality, where the moon fully blocks the sun, will cross over 115 miles of southern and southeastern Missouri. This includes popular destinations like Poplar Bluff and Cape Girardeau.

Numerous community events and festivals were planned along the path of totality in Missouri. Visitors were expected to flock to the Show-Me State to witness this rare celestial event, with an estimated 31 million people living within the path of totality across the country.

The Missouri Department of Transportation urged drivers to plan ahead, leave early, and avoid stopping on the interstate or highway shoulders to view the eclipse.They recommended finding a safe location off the roads to observe the event and stay put afterwards to avoid heavy traffic congestion.

Missouri State Parks also got in on the eclipse excitement, with 20 parks and historic sites located within the path of totality. These “park side of the moon” locations  provided ideal vantage points for visitors, though they cautioned people to follow safety guidelines and park regulations.

Overall, Missouri was poised to be a prime destination for viewing the 2024 total solar eclipse, offering a range of community events, state park viewing spots, and scenic locations along the path of totality across the southern part of the state.

Source Information:

https://www.modot.org/node/42811

https://dnr.mo.gov/communications/news/eclipse-viewing-tips-park-side-moon

https://spectrumlocalnews.com/mo/st-louis/news/2024/03/08/st–louis-solar-eclipse-2024

https://www.usatoday.com/story/news/nation/2024/04/08/total-solar-eclipse-2024-forecast-updates/72869293007/

https://www.greatamericaneclipse.com/visitation