On April 8, there will be a total solar eclipse in the US, plunging millions of people into darkness for a short time in the early afternoon.

The eclipse will begin in Mexico and extend across Texas, Oklahoma, Arkansas, Missouri, Illinois, Indiana, Ohio, New York, Pennsylvania, Vermont, New Hampshire and Maine before the phenomenon reaches the North Atlantic.

The spectacle is expected to draw crowds from across the US as tens of thousands of people are expected to flock to areas where the eclipse will be visible

In Texas, several counties have already issued “disaster advisories” ahead of the eclipse, and are taking steps to prepare.

Officials are urging citizens to stock up on food and gas in advance, as there is a serious chance of shortages due to the large turnout.

Mike Jones, director of the Hays County Office of Emergency Services told Newsweek, “I recommend that residents visit grocery stores and gas stations in advance so they don’t have to drive around the day of the event.”

Travis, Kendall and Bell counties also issued similar warnings.

Travis County Judge Andy Brown issued a “Local Disaster Declaration” in anticipation of extremely large crowds, increased traffic and “tremendous strains on emergency services, hospitals and roads in the days before, during and after the total solar eclipse,” the Travis County disaster statement said.

“Large crowds can create a risk to public safety and prevent or delay police and first aid services from responding to calls for help,” the statement added.

The last time the US had a total solar eclipse was on August 21, 2017.

The next one will happen in North America in 20 years, in 2044.