Niagara has declared a state of emergency ahead of the solar eclipse and here's what to know

The total solar eclipse is just days away, and if you'll be heading to Niagara to experience it, you'll want to be prepared.

The Niagara Region is preparing to host thousands of visitors during the total solar eclipse. Niagara will be one of the best places in Canada to witness the celestial event, lying directly in the path of totality.

Ahead of the event, the region has issued a state of emergency and is warning the public to be prepared for crowds and long lines. If you'll be visiting the region to catch the total solar eclipse, here's what you need to know.

The eclipse will take place on April 8, 2024. While a number of Canadian cities will be in the path of totality, Niagara Falls will offer one of the best views of the eclipse, with totality set to last for 3 minutes and 30 seconds, one of the longest durations in the country.

Around 1 million visitors are expected just in Niagara Falls, as Reuters reports. Out of "an abundance of caution," on March 28, Niagara Regional Chair Jim Bradley declared a state of emergency for Niagara, effective immediately.

"Residents and visitors to Niagara are welcome to safely enjoy the eclipse on April 8, and Niagara’s local governments, emergency responders, schools and other organizations have been working together with the Province and other key partners to make that possible," says a news release issued by the Niagara Region.

"Declaring a State of Emergency under the [Emergency Management and Civil Protection Act] strengthens the tools the Region has at its disposal to safeguard the health and safety of residents and visitors and protect our critical infrastructure in any scenario that might arise."

Janice Thomson, CEO of Niagara Falls Tourism, says the state of emergency is not cause for alarm.

"It's an unfortunate choice of words, that we have this state of emergency because, really, what we have is a state of excitement," she tells Narcity.

"[The state of emergency] is an administrative process that the regional government has to go through in order to access funding from other levels of government to help with additional costs," she clarified. "Because, of course, it's going to take an extraordinary effort to make sure that everything is well done and safely presented."

Those planning to watch the eclipse from Niagara should be prepared for crowds and long lines, and expect increases in traffic and road congestion. Visitors are advised to have snacks, water, entertainment and first-aid supplies on hand.

Those heading to the region are also being told to follow local directives and road signage as they travel during the eclipse.

"While travelling on highways, don't stop, take pictures, or get out of your car to view the eclipse," says the advice from the Niagara Region.

If you'll be travelling to Niagara to see it, you'll want to plan to arrive at your destination 24 to 48 hours ahead of time. There will also be plenty of things to do after the eclipse takes place, says Thomson, so you can avoid the rush to leave.

"We have a live concert that's free and we have four different bands playing [...], following that we have fireworks over the falls."

She says the attractions at Clifton Hill will also be open until 2 a.m. on the day of the eclipse.

If you haven't got your eclipse glasses yet, Thomson recommends getting them before travelling, if possible. However, you may be able to get them in Niagara.

"Many of the hotels are supplying them with their stay," she says. "And there are some retailers who will have them for sale here in the destination."

She recommends checking with your local library or city hall to get a pair before heading to the region.

"Niagara Falls is a place that is accustomed to having a lot of visitors and accustomed to a lot of live entertainment and wonderful attractions," she says. "So we're just looking forward to keeping that vibe going."

Before you get going, check out our Responsible Travel Guide so you can be informed, be safe, be smart, and most of all, be respectful on your adventure.