FILE - The moon covers the sun during a total solar eclipse Monday, Aug. 21, 2017, in Cerulean, Ky. On April 8, 2024, the sun will pull another disappearing act across parts of Mexico, the United States and Canada, turning day into night for as much as 4 minutes, 28 seconds. (AP Photo/Timothy D. Easley, File)

Timothy D. Easley

Pennsylvania is going “over the moon” for the next few weeks, as the entire commonwealth is lucky enough to be in direct viewing range of the annular solar eclipse, which will take place on April 8.

Numerous state agencies are advising residents, motorists and tourists to take caution when the eclipse rolls around to prevent traffic accidents, as the eclipse will take place just before rush hour.

The Pennsylvania Turnpike Commission will keep all lanes of traffic open on Interstate 79, and state police will remove disabled vehicles from interstates in northwest Pennsylvania. Additional maintenance personnel will be on hand on the interstate in case of an emergency.

At about 2 p.m. on April 8, the moon will begin sliding in front of the sun. Totality will occur over northwest Pennsylvania between 3:16 and 3:20 p.m., and the eclipse will conclude around 4 p.m.

Crawford and Erie counties, as well as portions of Mercer and Warren counties, will receive the best view of the eclipse, as they are in the path of totality.