FRANKFORT, Ky. (KT) – It’s been the most-hyped celestial event for the past seven years and it’s finally coming, as people in parts of western Kentucky will be able to see a total solar eclipse on Monday afternoon.

The eclipse path of totality will cover eight Kentucky counties, and clip parts of four others. Astronomers say it will enter Kentucky around 2 p.m. (CT) in parts of Fulton and Hickman counties, before rolling across Ballard, McCracken, Livingston, Crittenden, Union and Henderson counties along the Ohio River. Small portions of Carlisle, Graves, Webster and Daviess counties are also within the cone of the total eclipse.

The Kentucky Transportation Cabinet (KYTC) is urging residents, tourists and truckers to prepare for heavy traffic in western Kentucky and a dozen other states Monday afternoon. Travelers planning to view the total solar eclipse should expect congested highways and limited parking at rest stops, and pack essentials to ensure a safe and comfortable ride if they experience prolonged delays. To prepare for increased traffic, transportation officials are lifting lane restrictions in select work zones and are informing commercial truck drivers of expected traffic.

“Whether you’re a solar eclipse spectator or a career driver passing through, taking some time now to plan will help ensure the safety of everyone during this unique event,” said Transportation Secretary Jim Gray. “We encourage spectators to come early and stay late to help reduce the potential for hours-long gridlock expected when thousands of families head home. Truckers should plan travel routes and schedules with that in mind.”

KYTC officials say the event is expected to bring at least 150,000 visitors to the path of totality in Kentucky, with more than one million travelers predicted to drive through Kentucky to nearby viewing spots along the main path in Ohio, Indiana and Illinois.

Weather, particularly rain and clouds, will be a big factor in whether you’ll be able to actually see the eclipse. The two largest Kentucky cities along the path are Paducah and Henderson. As of Friday afternoon, the National Weather Service forecast for Paducah called for sunny skies and a high of 79, while in Henderson expect mostly sunny conditions with a high of 75.