Donning solar eclipse glasses is a must for April 8’s total solar eclipse, but Union Pacific Railroad reminds spectators of another important safety tip: enjoy the celestial event away from the railroad tracks.
The total eclipse will cast its shadow directly over key parts of Union Pacific’s network, including prime viewing destinations in Little Rock, Arkansas; Austin, San Antonio and Dallas, Texas; and Poplar Bluff, Missouri.
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Buck Russel II, senior supervisor of Public Safety for Union Pacific, said viewers should not congregate or park near tracks, as trains will continue to run throughout the eclipse.
“We have commitments to our customers to deliver goods and keep the nation’s supply chain moving, and trains will continue to run and can come from either direction at any time – sunshine or dark,” Russel said.
When viewing the eclipse, stay diligent and remember:
- Never walk on or near railroad tracks – it is illegal and dangerous.
- Always assume tracks are in use and a train can come through at any time.
- Cross train tracks only at designated pedestrian or roadway crossings and obey warning signs and posted signals. If your vehicle gets stuck on the tracks, get out immediately.
- Stay alert around railroad tracks. Refrain from texting, using headphones, and other distractions that could prevent you from hearing an approaching train.
A total solar eclipse happens when the moon passes between the sun and earth, completely blocking the face of the sun. While nearly everyone in the continental U.S. will be able to see a partial eclipse, those located in the center of the moon's shadow when it hits earth will experience a total eclipse.
The event won't happen again in the U.S. until 2044.
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