Solar eclipse fever is taking hold of the nation right now. Chicago’s partial solar eclipse will begin around 12:51 p.m. By 2:07 p.m., Chicago will be at its maximum solar eclipse coverage: 93.9%. However, if you’re traveling to one of the cities near Chicago that’s expected to have a total solar eclipse—fuel up because traffic delays are expected.
A total eclipse is expected in downstate Carbondale, Illinois, and Indianapolis, Indiana, and thousands of people are traveling there to see the show. The eclipse at Carbondale, Illinois, will begin around 12:43 p.m. In Indianapolis, Indiana, the eclipse will begin around 1:50 p.m. ET.
Traffic significantly increased along Interstate 65 and U.S. Highway 41 on Sunday and Monday as people traveled to see the total solar eclipse near Chicago. According to INDOT, traffic started picking up along the path of totality on Indiana highways in the late morning. IDOT said, “Pack a 10-gallon tank of Patience” if traveling to Carbondale.