VAN ZANDT COUNTY, Texas — Van Zandt County has issued a disaster declaration for April 5 to 9 in response to the upcoming solar eclipse events.
According to a press release, the county is expecting a large influx of people, overcrowding of our roads and parking lots, possible fuel and food shortages and possible limited cell phone service.
Van Zandt County is urging residents to stay home and avoid driving if possible on April 8 and to expect traffic delays.
The area sees its fair share of tourists with Canton’s First Monday Trade Days. Van Zandt County Judge Andy Reese said officials' main concern is people trying to get in and out of town on Interstate 20.
"By declaring a disaster it relaxes some of the rules and regulations that first responders have to adhere to on a normal basis," Reese said.
Reese also added that police have had to respond to multiple instances on I-20 this year already, and they’re preparing for things to be even busier and more backed up. He said that declaring a countywide disaster will allow first responders to respond to situations more efficiently.