MAINE, USA — Thousands of people are expected to visit Maine for Monday's solar eclipse and officials are expecting "severe" traffic.
The worst traffic is expected to be on Interstate 95 northbound from Augusta to Waterville, according to the Maine Department of Transportation (MaineDOT). Parts of I-95 around Gray and Clinton and part of Route 1 north of Portland are also expected to see heavy traffic.
Maine will be one of the best spots in the country to view the total solar eclipse, as it's in the path of totality and no cloud coverage is expected Monday, according to the latest forecast. The rare event is expected to draw even more visitors to the state, as cloudy conditions are expected for many southern states.
Gov. Janet Mills estimated 10,000 to 40,000 people will travel to Maine for the eclipse.
Maine officials urged drivers to stay on highways instead of backroads, many of which are muddy this time of year. They also advised drivers against pulling over to the side of the road, which can be muddy under all the snow from this week's nor'easter.
The MaineDOT offered these tips for drivers Monday:
- Plan your primary and backup travel routes ahead of time (including for the trip home). There are many areas of the state with poor cell phone reception, and it's possible towers may be overloaded in busy areas.
- Plan to be able to stop your vehicle somewhere safe for eclipse viewing, not on a road or road shoulder.
- Maine's mud season is in full swing. Try not to pull over on the shoulder of the road, as you could get stuck in the mud.
- Animals may be confused during the eclipse and wander into the road. Use extra caution when driving just prior to or just after the eclipse.
The department also shared this graphic showing where the worst traffic is expected Monday:
