SISTERS, OR -- Sisters may be on the very edge of the path of totality, but it’s one of the first Central Oregon towns to experience the eclipse and, with its reputation as a tourist-friendly area, it’s likely to see a large number of eclipse visitors.

Sisters-Camp Sherman Fire Chief Roger Johnson says the city is offering two preparedness meetings Tuesday, by popular demand. "We’re just seeing a tremendous amount of interest. There’s been a lot of planning going on regionally for this event. So, I think it’s a great opportunity to show the community what work has been going on and to assure everybody we’re prepared as much as we can be, for the event." Initially, the city planned only one gathering. But, Chief Johnson tells KBND News, "We’ve been monitoring some of the other community meetings around the area, both in Camp Sherman and Redmond. Both of those meetings had higher attendance than, I think what was initially expected, so we’re just trying to provide multiple opportunities for the company to come out."

He says the biggest concern he hears from residents: potential traffic problems. "We expect it to be like a very busy weekend in Sisters – or busier than that, even; busier than Quilt Show, potentially, is what we’re hearing for traffic." He adds, "Fire is also a big worry. As people get out into the woods and want to get a good vantage point, some people will venture out into some of the Forest Service roads and try to get a nice spot to view the eclipse. We want to make sure that people are 'Fire Safe' when they’re out in those areas."

Tuesday’s preparedness meetings take place at the main fire station in Sisters, inside the Community Room. They begin at 4 p.m. and 6 p.m. Representatives from the city of Sisters, the Oregon Department of Transportation, area fire departments and the Forest Service will join Deschutes County’s Emergency Manager to talk about personal and regional preparedness. Click for more details.

Eclipse Coverage on KBND is supported in part by Awnings Unlimited. Shade yourself from the sun with Awnings Unlimited at 5541-389-1619 and .