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Guide to Viewing the Eclipse
April 2024 Total Eclipse of the Sun in Llano County
This celestial event is a solar eclipse in which the moon passes between the sun and Earth and blocks all or part of the sun for up to about three hours, from beginning to end, as viewed from a given location. For this eclipse, the longest period when the moon completely blocks the sun from any given location along the path will be about four minutes and 24 seconds. The last time the contiguous U.S. saw a total eclipse was in 1979.
On Monday, April 8, 2024, all of North America will be treated to an eclipse of the sun. Anyone within the path of totality (dark red, above) can see one of nature’s most awe-inspiring sights - a TOTAL solar eclipse. This path, where the moon will completely cover the sun allowing the sun's tenuous atmosphere - the corona - to be seen, will stretch from Mexico to Canada. Observers outside this path will still see a partial solar eclipse where the moon covers part of the sun's disk.
Considerations for Your Trip
Llano County’s population of approximately 21,243 is expected to swell to 35,000+ during the impact period. It is best to arrive early, come prepared, and have reasonable expectations, given the situation. Once the eclipse begins, you will forget all about the crowds and any small inconveniences it took for you to experience this event.
Llano County is beautiful, but keep local hazards in mind and always know your surroundings. Be aware of flash flooding, snakes, spiders, ants, cacti, and other natural hazards.
Think about your personal safety and security:
- Have a good communication plan with your family members. Cell service may be limited due to the increased volume. Have an out of area friend or family member you can check in with if you get separated. Pick a landmark where you can reunite if you get separated in a crowd.
- Do not leave valuables in your vehicles. Think through your security plan and how to keep important items secure, i.e., cell phones, telescopes, binoculars, wallets, etc.
- Make sure your vehicle/RV has been serviced and you are all fueled up and ready to go (gas, propane, etc.)
- Help us keep our communities and public areas clean and safe; follow the rule “Pack it in, Pack it out!”
Things to Bring With You
- Eclipse Viewing Glasses
- Water (plenty of it)
- First Aid Kit
- Necessary medications for you and your pets
- Cash (ATMs may be limited during this time)
- Sunscreen
- Sunglasses
- Hat/visor
- Comfortable walking shoes
- Folding chair
- Jacket or sweatshirt (for the evening hours)
- Snacks/food for the hours, days you plan to be with us
- Prepaid phone card – if you need to call long distance and cellular service is not available
- Maps of area if you need directions (print your directions and bring them with you); your cellular service may be limited during heaviest impact times
While Visiting During the Eclipse Impact Days:
Do not think, “We’ll just pick up what we need when we get there.” Supplies, cash, fuel, and restaurant meals may be limited or have long lines due to high demand. Bring as much as you can with you, as local resources will be strained!