Unless you’ve been living under a rock, you already know that on April 8, a total solar eclipse will be visible throughout Western New York. The last such occurrence was in 1925. The next total solar eclipse in the United States will not happen until 2044.

As such, the eclipse in Western New York is a literal once in a lifetime experience. Large crowds and an influx of tourists is expected throughout the region. Congestion and traffic delays will be the norm, and some businesses may be closed or have changed hours.

To prepare local residents, the Erie County Department of Health has set up a web page for residents to get information to prepare.