The Canadian town of Niagara declared a state of emergency to prepare its residents for an unprecedented flood of tourists to the area for the April 8 solar eclipse.

Niagara Regional Chair Jim Bradley preemptively made the declaration because it “strengthens the tools the Region has at its disposal to safeguard the health and safety of residents and visitors and protect our critical infrastructure in any scenario that might arise.” The region is recommending that locals stock up on gas and groceries and adhere to signage posted for the event.