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2024 Solar Eclipse
The 2024 total solar eclipse will be visible over approximately 128 miles of Illinois April 8. Totality enters Illinois as it crosses the Missouri state line southwest in Carbondale at 1:58 p.m. The eclipse will follow a diagonal line crossing over Fairfield and exit Illinois at Mount Carmel at 2:06 p.m.
There are some safety issues to keep in mind if you plan to travel across southern Illinois to view the eclipse. Our friends and partners at the Illinois Department of Transportation expect crowds of 100,000 to 200,000 to visit the prime viewing area in southern Illinois. This will lead to heavy traffic into and through out the totality zone across southern Illinois.
IDOT has provided these travel tips:
- If driving during the eclipse, ensure car headlights are on.
- Don't ever take photos, videos, or wear "eclipse glasses" while driving.
- Don't park along the shoulder of the road, highway, or interstate to watch the eclipse.
- Always exit the roadway and park in a safe area away from traffic before viewing the eclipse.
- Check travel conditions at Getting Around Illinois
- Many communities in the path of totality are having festivals and concerts over the weekend leading up to April 8. See more information at the 2024 Solar Eclipse Guide for Illinois