Uvalde, a Texas town still grappling with the aftermath of one of the nation’s deadliest school shootings, is preparing to welcome a surge of tourists and residents hoping to witness Monday’s total solar eclipse. The eclipse, which will cast the region into darkness for four minutes and 18 seconds, is expected to draw an estimated 50,000 to 75,000 visitors from around the world, according to John Yeakle, director of tourism for the Uvalde Area Chamber of Commerce.
Uvalde, with its population of 15,000, was devastated by the tragic events that unfolded at Robb Elementary School on May 24, 2022. Salvador Ramos, 18, entered a fourth-grade classroom and opened fire, resulting in the loss of 19 children and two adults. The community, still reeling from the incident, hopes that the eclipse will provide an opportunity to showcase the natural beauty and warm diversity of Uvalde, rather than being solely associated with the school shooting.
Yeakle emphasized that Uvalde should be seen as a gateway to southwest Texas, highlighting its potential as a prime location for viewing astronomical events due to its lack of light pollution. However, the influx of visitors is expected to cause significant traffic congestion, with two major arteries experiencing hours of delays. The majority of visitors are anticipated to come from within Texas, including cities like Houston, San Antonio, and Austin.
The resignation of Uvalde Police Chief Daniel Rodriguez, who was on vacation during the shooting, and the subsequent departure of Mayor Cody Smith due to medical issues have added to the community’s challenges. Mayor Pro-Tem Everardo Zamora will assume the role until the November election.
