OHIO — Gov. Mike DeWine activated the Ohio Emergency Operations Center Friday, just three days before the solar eclipse, which is expected to draw large crowds to the Buckeye State.

What You Need To Know

  • The activation follows DeWine's executive order last month directing all state departments and agencies to be prepared to support communities

  • The Ohio State Highway Patrol is increasing its staff levels and activating its aviation unit to help traffic safety services and emergency response on highways

  • Across Ohio's 23 stateparks and five wildlife areas, the Ohio Department of Natural Resources is also increasing its staffing levels

  • Roadwork will be restricted leading up to, during and after the eclipse to decrease traffic backups, but certain areas were unable to be adjusted

"There is no better place to experience the eclipse than in Ohio, the Birthplace of Aviation and the heart of aerospace," said DeWine. "While we are confident that our local communities have fully prepared for the influx of spectators, having our Emergency Operations Center at the ready will allow us to immediately respond if any unexpected needs arise."

Ohio State Highway Patrol, Ohio Emergency Management Agency, Ohio Adjutant General's Department, Ohio Fire Marshal's Office, Ohio Environmental Protection Agency staff members and members of the departments of transportation, natural resources, administrative services, and job and family services will report to the EOC in Columbus starting Sunday.

The activation follows DeWine's executive order last month directing all state departments and agencies to be prepared to support communities. The Ohio EMA has coordinated alongside state, local and private partners to prepare for the increased demand for gas, food, shelter, traffic and cell phone service since 2021.

"We usually don't have this much notice for a large-scale event, but the eclipse has been hundreds of years in the making, so that helped make our jobs a little easier," said Sima Merick, director of the Ohio Emergency Management Agency. "Our EOC teams will be watching traffic cameras, weather radar, and monitoring local needs through contact with our county partners, and we stand ready to provide resources as needed."

The Ohio State Highway Patrol is increasing its staff levels and activating its aviation unit to help traffic safety services and emergency response on highways. Across Ohio's 23 stateparks and five wildlife areas, the Ohio Department of Natural Resources is also increasing its staffing levels.

ODOT will assist on Monday with traffic control and adjust traffic signal timing near popular viewing spots as needed. The Ohio Turnpike will be similarly staffed along its toll booths, service plazas and maintenance buildings. Tow truck operators will also monitor the turnpike to provide assistance to stranded motorists and signage will be placed along the roadway to keep travelers informed of traffic incidents and driving conditions.

Roadwork will be restricted leading up to, during and after the eclipse to decrease traffic backups, but certain areas were unable to be adjusted. Travelers should anticipate longer delays along: 

  • I-75 in Dayton and Cincinnati 
  • I-475 in Toledo 
  • I-70/71 in downtown Columbus 
  • I-70 in Zanesville 
  • I-76/I-77/SR-8 in Akron
  • Ohio Turnpike at milepost 185.6 in Summit County (Tinkers Creek Bridge)

"We encourage everyone to plan ahead, get there early, stay late, as EMA Director Sima says, 'Bring your patience with you,'" said DeWine. "Pack your patience."

Spectrum News 1 reporter Samana Sheikh contributed to this report.

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