Dripping Springs council approves disaster declaration for total solar eclipse

DRIPPING SPRINGS, Texas (KXAN) -- Ahead of next month's total solar eclipse that will cast a shadow on much of Central Texas, the Dripping Springs City Council at its regular meeting Tuesday approved a disaster declaration for the April 8 eclipse.

The city said in a release the declaration is part of "comprehensive preparations to ensure the safety and well-being of residents and visitors during this extraordinary celestial event."

Dripping Springs is expected to be in total darkness for about three minutes during the eclipse.

According to the release, the city does not anticipate any significant issues, but the disaster declaration activates the city's Emergency Management team and authorizes more aid if needed. The city also said in the release it allows them to "streamline decision-making, access additional resources, and coordinate emergency response efforts to effectively address any needs we may have."

The city said the declaration includes the following:

• Ensures Dripping Springs Emergency Management can plan and authorize the furnishing of aid and assistance and authorizes Dripping Springs to take any actions necessary to promote life, safety and infrastructure protection should there be a need.
• States that city offices other than essential services will not be open on April 8,
  including building inspections and permits, and planning reviews, and encouraging the
  cessation of construction activities on that day.
• Requires property owners and entities having events in conjunction with the eclipse
  with 50 or more people within the city limits to register that event. They must
  register the event online.
• Encourages all residents to be mindful of the increased traffic, ensure all vehicles are
  filled with fuel the week leading up to this event, ensure sufficient groceries and
  supplies are purchased well in advance, and to take all cautionary measures to ensure
  the safety of all persons and animals in their car.

"We are so excited about this awe-inspiring celestial event, and it is going to be amazing. But it
is also imperative that we prioritize the safety and well-being of our community," stated Emergency Management Coordinator Roman Baligad. "The City has been proactive in planning
for this event for two years and we are prepared. Through that proactive planning and concerted efforts, we are committed to making the eclipse viewing experience both memorable and secure for all."

The Texas State Guard will also be in Dripping Springs using the eclipse event for their annual training. According to the Dripping Springs release, Soldiers of the Texas State Guard, 3rd Battalion 6th Brigade will be in the city April 8 partnering with the Hays County Emergency Management team and Dripping Springs Emergency Management to help with traffic control and communications during the eclipse.

Read the full disaster declaration online, and read more about city plans for the eclipse on its official eclipse website.