The Empire State is on the brink of witnessing a celestial phenomenon not seen in nearly a century—the upcoming solar eclipse. As anticipation mounts, New York has embarked on a comprehensive preparation journey to welcome the solar spectacle set for April, an effort that notably extends to the state’s correctional facilities.
The Department of Corrections and Community Supervision (DOCCS) of New York State has taken an unusual step by announcing the suspension of visitations at 23 prisons directly in the eclipse’s path of totality on April 8. This measure ensures that these facilities will remain closed to visitors throughout the day to mitigate any potential disruptions during the brief plunge into darkness, expected to last from one and a half to three and a half minutes depending on the location. Prisons not directly under the eclipse’s shadow will conclude visitations prematurely at 2 p.m.
In an unprecedented move aimed at maintaining safety, a “system-wide lockdown” will be enforced across these facilities during the eclipse, confining inmates to their housing units from 2 to 5 p.m. This decision, highlighted by Hell Gate, is part of the broader safety protocols instituted by DOCCS in response to the eclipse. Despite these stringent measures, the department has also considered the inmates’ opportunity to experience this rare event, reportedly distributing special solar eclipse safety glasses to allow them to safely partake in the moment.
The preparation for April’s eclipse has been thorough and wide-reaching, reflecting the significance of the event that Governor Kathy Hochul has described as a “once-in-a-generation experience.” Early in the year, Gov. Hochul unveiled a statewide initiative aimed at facilitating a safe and memorable eclipse viewing experience. This included measures to heighten scam awareness and the distribution of eclipse glasses at select locations across New York, ensuring residents and visitors are well-equipped to witness the spectacle without risking their eyesight.
Scheduled for the afternoon of April 8, 2024, the eclipse will cast a shadow over the western and northern regions of New York, creating a brief nocturnal atmosphere. Within a window from 3:15 p.m. to 3:30 p.m., those within the path of totality will experience darkness ranging from 1 ½ to 3 ½ minutes. The path, spanning approximately 100 miles in width, will envelop cities and towns such as Jamestown, Buffalo, Rochester, and Plattsburgh, offering a unique viewing experience that encompasses a significant portion of the state.
For regions outside the direct path, the eclipse still promises a significant spectacle, with coverage percentages ranging from 88% on Long Island to 96% in the Capital Region. This ensures that nearly all New Yorkers will have the opportunity to witness the event, albeit to varying extents.
As the date approaches, New York’s extensive preparations underscore the eclipse’s importance as a not-to-be-missed natural wonder, reflecting a statewide commitment to ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience for all.
