The American Red Cross of Tennessee has been preparing for the total solar eclipse as if it were an emergency.
Due to the high quantity of visitors, highly booked hotels and low cellular service, the area of Middle Tennessee is poised to get a little messy. However, the a spokesperson for the Red Cross said they're ready to extend a helping hand.
"We're really treating this like any large public event that may come our way," said regional communications director Sarah Basel. "So, we're working with local emergency management right now. If there's a need for shelter, for feeding, we're prepared to open shelters on a moments notice."
The reason shelters were an option is if there's some type of disaster, hotels in the area may not be able to accommodate staff like they normally would've. Many hotels have reported high booking rates in the times surrounding the eclipse.
"So, we're encouraging people to make a plan and be prepared in advance, knowing that cell phones could be down or they may not have a place to stay if they're coming from out of town," said Basel.
Shelters would likely be in the form of community centers or churches. Basel said they prepared in all communities across Middle Tennessee.
