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The Best Local Online Counseling in Macon, GA
If there's one universal truth about humans, it's that at some point in our lives, we have to work through difficult circumstances. When that happens, we often need someone to talk to - someone we can trust who can give us an unbiased opinion or advice. Sometimes, that person is a family member or close friend. In some situations, however, only a qualified professional like a therapist will work. If that sounds familiar, don't be ashamed because you're most certainly not alone. According to recent statistics, in the U.S., approximately 55.8 million adults needed treatment or counseling for mental health reasons in 2022.
If you've been thinking about mental health treatment, you may be considering virtual therapy with an online counselor. Online therapy gives you the chance to connect with licensed therapists and mental health coaches without needing to set foot in a traditional therapy setting. Working with an online therapist can be every bit as effective as seeing an in-person therapist. From anxiety disorders to stress management, virtual therapy provides help for mental health concerns without the need to sit for long periods in a therapist's waiting room. If you're in search of counseling online in Macon, GA, ZenZone Health is among the best choices available.
Online Counseling Services
- The Best Local Online Counseling in Macon, GA
- ZenZone Health: Online Counseling When You Need It Most
- Booking an Online Therapy Session is Easy at ZenZone Health
- Exploring the Many Benefits of Online Counseling in Macon, GA
- When is the Best Time to Seek Counseling Online in Macon, GA?
- Nurturing Your Mental Health One Session at a Time
ZenZone Health: Online CounselingWhen You Need It Most
At ZenZone Health, our team of licensed therapists and mental health coaches are committed to delivering reliable and collaborative mental health care to those who need it most. With extensive experience in our field, we recognize the significance of customized, compassionate treatment for mental health. That's why we approach treatment in a comprehensive manner, taking into account each client's specific needs and wellness goals. Our virtual therapists use evidence-based methods to help clients develop resilience and build coping skills that they can use every day.
We know that reaching out for help when you have mental health challenges can be tough, which is why we always offer a welcoming, non-judgmental atmosphere for our clients. We emphatically believe that everyone should have access to quality mental health care and work hard to ensure that our services are easy to understand and affordable for all.
Our telehealth therapists in Macon, GA, focus on a range of specialties, including:
- Depression Therapy
- Anxiety Therapy
- Stress Management
- First Break Psychosis
- Mood Disorders & Bipolar
- Panic Attacks & Panic Disorders
- Family Counseling
- Couples Counseling
- Grief & Loss
- PTSD
- Substance Use Disorder
- Business Consulting
- Wellness Coaching
Booking an Online Therapy Session is Easy at ZenZone Health
Some online counseling websites make booking a session convoluted and confusing. We strive to make the process streamlined and simple. We're also committed to matching you with quality therapists. In fact, the president of ZenZone Health conducts a free 15-minute assessment for every one of our new patients. By relying on a trained, licensed professionals, instead of an algorithm, we can pair you with a counselor who has experience best suited to your needs.
Here's how to Request Information:
Schedule Your Initial Appointment
Fill out the appointment request form on our website or call our office today to discuss how to Request Information with counseling online.
Ongoing Therapy
Once we have completed your initial appointment, you're in the Zone. At this point, you continue to make progress in your virtual coaching or therapy sessions.
Package Savings Program
We want to maintain and build on the progress you're making at ZenZone Health, which is why we created our wellness program, which helps make sure you're in the Zone you want and deserve to be in. This program is dedicated finding the right package for you, to schedule continual sessions 1x per week, 2x per month, what ever is right for you and the price point suited for you.
Insurance
Navigating insurance for online counseling can be a headache, but we go out of our way to make it as easy as possible for you by working with many insurance companies and plans. In some instances, and depending on licensure, we can take your insurance. Please call or message us for more details.
FAQs About Online Counseling and Therapy from ZenZone Health
Therapy will be different for each person, depending on their issues and goals. Typically, sessions involve discussing current events, personal history, and progress from previous sessions. Therapy can be short-term or longer-term, and it's common to have regular weekly sessions. Active participation is important for results, and your therapist may suggest activities outside of sessions to support your progress. Therapy is for those ready to make positive changes, open to new perspectives, and willing to take responsibility for their lives.
Therapy can help with mental and emotional problems better than medication alone. Therapy does more than just treat symptoms; it also addresses the causes of distress and the behavior patterns that limit progress. An integrated approach to wellness is best for long-term growth and well-being. Your doctor can help you decide whether medication, therapy, or both are the right choice for you.
Everyone experiences difficult times in life, and while you may have effectively dealt with other challenges you've encountered, there's no shame in reaching out for extra assistance when you require it. Seeking therapy is actually a sign of self-awareness and strength, as it indicates that you recognize the need for support. By seeking therapy, you are demonstrating accountability for your current circumstances and showing a commitment to making a change. Therapy offers enduring advantages and guidance, equipping you with the necessary skills to avoid potential triggers, redirect harmful behaviors, and conquer any obstacles that come your way.
Now that you know more about what makes ZenZone Health different, let's dig deeper into the benefits of telehealth therapy sessions and who benefits the most from them.
Anxiety, Stress, and Depression: How ZenZone Telehealth Therapists in Macon, GA Help
In today's fast-paced world, mental health disorders are increasingly common and impacting millions of lives worldwide. In the Southeast United States, the prevalence of these disorders has led to the development of specialized treatments and therapies. In this pursuit, ZenZone Health has emerged as a beacon of hope, offering exceptional services in depression therapy, anxiety therapy, and stress management.
A Personalized Approach to Mental Health
What sets ZenZone Health apart from other remote therapists is our personalized approach to therapy. We understand that every person who needs therapy has unique needs and goals. That's why we develop customized treatment plans that address those needs and goals in a structured, compassionate manner. By providing you with a custom treatment plan, we can help ensure that you get the highest quality, most effective interventions possible, leading to positive outcomes and enhanced quality of life.
Depression Therapy from ZenZone Health
Struggling with depression can feel like an ongoing battle, overshadowing everyday life. At ZenZone Health, our depression therapy brings a glimmer of hope to those facing this challenging condition. Our licensed therapists use proven techniques to create a supportive environment where individuals can explore their feelings and build effective coping strategies. By combining psychotherapy and counseling, patients are gently guided toward healing and self-discovery.
Stress and Anxiety Therapy at ZenZone Health
Chronic stress has become a widespread concern in today's modern society, impacting individuals of all age groups. ZenZone Health offers stress management programs that provide practical tools to effectively deal with life's pressures. Our experienced therapists empower clients with relaxation techniques and time management strategies to help achieve balance amidst the chaos.
Anxiety can feel overwhelming, making even simple tasks seem like huge challenges. At ZenZone Health, our anxiety therapy is customized to tackle the underlying issues that your brain won't let go of. Our therapists work closely with you, using cognitive-behavioral techniques and mindfulness practices to help you handle anxious thoughts and behaviors. Through personalized sessions, you can learn to take back control and live a more peaceful and balanced life.
Trauma & PTSD Therapy at ZenZone Health
At ZenZone Health, we understand that the aftermath of trauma can be debilitating, affecting every aspect of your life. Our specialized PTSD and trauma therapy programs are designed to help you regain control and find peace. Using evidence-based techniques, our compassionate therapists work with you to process traumatic experiences and develop coping strategies. Whether through cognitive-behavioral therapy, EMDR, or mindfulness practices, we provide a safe and supportive environment for healing. At ZenZone Health, we are dedicated to helping you move forward, reclaim your life, and achieve lasting well-being.
Exploring the Many Benefits of Online Counseling in Macon, GA
Studies indicate that therapy is generally effective and offers numerous advantages. Therapy can help you recognize sources of distress, gain better self-understanding, and reach your goals. While traditional in-person counseling is an option for many, it's not for everyone. Here are some of the biggest benefits of online therapy:
Access to Support When Living in Remote Areas
Online therapy provides mental health support to individuals living in rural or remote areas who may not have access to traditional in-person therapy due to a lack of local mental health services. Seeking face-to-face therapy in such cases often involves long drives and significant time commitments, which can be challenging for those with busy schedules. However, with reliable internet access, telehealth therapy sessions offer a convenient and relatively quick way to access treatment that might otherwise be difficult to obtain.
Affordable and Convenient
While this wasn't always the case, modern counseling online is usually quite affordable and convenient. You can schedule therapy sessions from the comfort of your own home at times that suit you best. Plus, many states now mandate that insurance providers cover online therapy just like traditional therapy (you should contact your insurance company to see if telehealth counseling is covered). Add that to the fact that telehealth is generally affordable even without insurance coverage, and you can see why so many people check in with their counselors on a weekly and even daily basis.
Access to Counseling if You're Physically Disabled
When you're disabled physically, everyday tasks like getting dressed and running errands can be extremely frustrating. Unfortunately, disabled men and women often forego therapy because they can't make it to the therapist's office. Online therapy offers a way for people with disabilities or limited mobility to access mental health care. A therapist working from home may not have the facilities to cater to clients with different needs, but with online counseling, you can still access quality care.
Better Availability
Telehealth therapy sessions in Macon, GA offer an easier way for people to connect with a counselor, especially for those who need help but might be deterred by various obstacles. Individuals struggling with mental health issues like social anxiety disorder, depression, mood disorders, or post-traumatic stress disorder may find it difficult to motivate themselves to seek out a therapist, book appointments, and travel to their office for the initial and subsequent meetings.
If booking an appointment with a traditional therapist isn't in the cards, it could be time to try counseling online.
Therapy is More Approachable
The internet has made mental health treatment more accessible. People might find it easier to discuss physical health problems with friends and family than mental health concerns. However, online access can help overcome the stigma associated with mental health issues. Teletherapy can also be a valuable tool for learning more about mental health and strengthening your psychological well-being, even if you're not struggling with mental health issues.
A Note from ZenZone Health: If you or a loved one is experiencing suicidal thoughts, contact the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline by dialing 988 on your phone. You can contact this number 24/7, day or night.
When is the Best Time to Seek Counseling Online in Macon, GA?
If you're reading this, chances are you or a loved one is struggling in life. You may be dealing with added stress at work, grieving after a traumatic life event, or working through a rocky relationship. Dealing with these issues alone can be challenging. But asking for help can be, too. That's especially true when you're dealing with mental health issues. Fortunately, a licensed therapist may be able to provide the support and tools you need to get back to a normal life. If you're wondering whether you need online counseling, keep these situations in mind.
Living with Substance Abuse Problems
Dealing with addictions, whether it's substance abuse or behavioral addictions like gambling, can feel incredibly daunting. Therapy is an essential part of the recovery process as it delves into the underlying causes of these issues. With help from remote therapists, you develop skills to help maintain sobriety and prevent relapses. For example, if you're struggling with alcohol addiction, an online therapist can help you identify triggers and teach you new, healthier ways to cope with those triggers instead of using alcohol.
Dealing with Relationship Issues
Relationship struggles can be a huge motivating factor for seeking therapy. These issues may involve friends, romantic partners, or family members. For instance, a couple may turn to couples counseling to address communication or trust issues. An online counselor can assist individuals in resolving these issues and developing improved communication skills, boundaries, and coping strategies.
Symptoms of a Mental Health Condition
Conditions like depression, bipolar disorder, eating disorders, ADHD, and PTSD can significantly disrupt daily life. Symptoms can manifest as constant feelings of worry or frequent headaches. Therapy, along with medication or lifestyle adjustments, can be an effective treatment for mental health. For example, a person with anxiety might learn relaxation techniques to manage stress levels with the help of a therapist. Similarly, someone experiencing depression may learn coping skills to maintain a more positive outlook on life.
New Challenges in Life
Dealing with common - albeit challenging - events in life, like losing a job, coping with grief, or undergoing major changes, can be very disruptive. If you find yourself losing interest in your usual activities, it could be a sign of a mental health condition like major depressive disorder. Therapy offers essential support and guidance for managing these issues, which can help individuals overcome their obstacles. For instance, a person grieving the loss of a loved one may benefit from online counseling as they navigate through their emotions. Similarly, someone who has relocated to a new city might find online therapy beneficial as they adapt to their new home, community, and workplace.
Trauma from Childhood
Childhood trauma can have a lasting impact on people as they mature. Virtual therapy with a licensed professional can assist people in processing these experiences and recovering from them, which may help them comprehend and address any existing issues. For instance, individuals who experienced neglect as children can work through feelings of abandonment in therapy, potentially alleviating the anxiety they may be feeling in their romantic relationship.
Nurturing Your Mental Health One Session at a Time
In the pursuit of mental wellness, ZenZone Health stands as your steadfast ally, offering specialized therapies that cater to a range of mental health and lifestyle challenges. Through our expertise in depression therapy, anxiety therapy, and stress management, we aren't just providing treatments; we're offering a lifeline to those struggling with mental health disorders. When you trust ZenZone Health for online therapy in Macon, GA, you're taking the first step toward rediscovering joy in your life, one session at a time. Contact us today to learn more about telehealth therapy and how our providers can help you overcome the hurdles holding you back.
Latest News in Macon, GA
Here’s my review of the Krabby Patty meal at Wendy’s & where you can get one in Macon
Chelsea Maddenhttps://www.macon.com/entertainment/restaurants/article293943599.html
Ravioli ravioli, Wendy’s has the formuoli.Wendy’s new Krabby Patty Kollab meal is now available and let’s just say, my millennial SpongeBob-loving heart was beaming with joy when I first heard about it.I grew up watching SpongeBob and although it was considered a bit odd back then (and still is), my older brother and I got a crack out of it (and still do).Essentially, it was a no-brainer that I go try this new meal. Here’s my fu...
Ravioli ravioli, Wendy’s has the formuoli.
Wendy’s new Krabby Patty Kollab meal is now available and let’s just say, my millennial SpongeBob-loving heart was beaming with joy when I first heard about it.
I grew up watching SpongeBob and although it was considered a bit odd back then (and still is), my older brother and I got a crack out of it (and still do).
Essentially, it was a no-brainer that I go try this new meal. Here’s my full review of the meal and where you can get one.
Okay, listen. I have to be honest here. I’m not a huge fan of Wendy’s and I don’t go there too often. It’s just not my first choice. I said what I said.
But for a SpongeBob-inspired meal, oh yeah, I’m down. And when that meal (burger, fries and frosty) is $10.99, my wallet is able to stay happy, too. That’s not a bad deal, especially considering the burger is a hefty double patty.
Not to mention, the burger is stacked. Of course with the secret formula: a bun filled with—in this case—two patties, lettuce, cheese, onions, tomatoes, ketchup, mustard and pickles. Wendy’s version of the Krabby Patty also came with a tasty secret sauce on top, which was tasty and a bit tangy.
Overall, the Krabby Patty was a good burger and a great value for the size. But I had suspicions that it was just like another burger on the menu at Wendy’s and after staring at the menu for a bit, I found out that my suspicions were true.
The Dave’s Double meal at Wendy’s is also $10.99 and comes with, as Wendy’s describes it, “a half-pound of fresh British beef, American cheese, crisp lettuce, tomato, pickle, Heinz ketchup, Heinz mayo, and onion on a toasted bun.” So, it is also a double patty burger with all the same ingredients, minus the addition of the secret sauce that the Krabby Patty has.
Of course, the Krabby Patty meal also comes with fries and a Pineapple Frosty, whereas the Dave’s Double meal comes with fries and a fountain drink for the same price. So, is the Pineapple Frosty really worth giving up your crisp fountain drink? Here’s what I think.
I have to admit I was nervous about trying the Pineapple Frosty because it didn’t sound too appealing, but when in Bikini Bottom…
All in all, it was pretty good. I was pleasantly surprised by the taste, as it wasn’t too overpowering and it had a small kick of pineapple flavor. I was expecting it to have a hugely artificial taste, but it actually was pretty subtle and refreshing. I even dipped my fries in it because I wanted the full Frosty experience. Delicious.
Although the Krabby Patty meal was eerily similar to the Dave’s Double, I still think it was genius marketing and I give Wendy’s major props for being super creative. Even if all they did was add a new sauce to the burger and new flavored Frosty. But hey, no hate here. I might even officially be a hard-core Wendy’s fan now.
I give the Wendy’s Krabby Patty Kollab meal a 3.5 out of 5 stars.
If you’re curious about trying it for yourself, you can try it for a limited time. Here’s where you can grab one:
If this review has tickled your fancy and made your mouth water a bit, here’s what to know about where you can get the new Krabby Patty Kollab meal in Macon:
I tried the Krabby Patty meal at the Wendy’s in Forsyth, Georgia, which is located at 177 N Lee St, Forsyth, GA 31029.
Here are more locations in the Macon area:
Have you tried the Krabby Patty meal at Wendy’s? Let me know what you thought in the comments or email me at cmadden@mcclatchy.com.
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This story was originally published October 14, 2024, 2:23 PM.
Former president Clinton set to come to Central Georgia, find out where
WMAZhttps://www.13wmaz.com/article/news/local/former-president-bill-clinton-coming-to-central-georgia/93-a0871432-4c99-4960-bafc-5ea8189e874f
The former president is set to come to Central Georgia on Sunday and Monday. Find out when and whereFORT VALLEY, Ga. — A former American president is making a trip to Central Georgia.The 42nd president of the United States Bill Clinton will be making a trip to Fort Valley for an event on Sunday.Clinton, Get Out The Vote and ...
The former president is set to come to Central Georgia on Sunday and Monday. Find out when and where
FORT VALLEY, Ga. — A former American president is making a trip to Central Georgia.
The 42nd president of the United States Bill Clinton will be making a trip to Fort Valley for an event on Sunday.
Clinton, Get Out The Vote and the Democratic Coordinated Campaign will team up and travel to Peach County for a fish fry. The event, according to its website, will run from 2 to 5 p.m.
Clinton's plans to travel around to various counties were revealed on Friday. According to CNN, he plans to emphasize counties that former president Donald Trump won in years past. Clinton's visit comes two days before Trump visits Atlanta on Wednesday
The former president is currently campaigning for Democratic presidential nominee and Vice President Kamala Harris alongside fellow former president Barack Obama.
Clinton's visit to Central Georgia comes about a month after Democratic vice presidential nominee Tim Walz visited Macon.
RELATED: Minnesota Governor Tim Walz stops in Macon, highlights voter registration and key issues in Georgia
Clinton, according to WRBL, is scheduled to be in Georgia on Sunday and Monday. Alongside Fort Valley, he is expected to stop in Perry and Albany.
His visit comes just before early in-person voting begins in Georgia on Tuesday. The election will be held on Nov. 5. Early voting begins on Oct. 15.
Get more news and information from 13WMAZ by downloading 13WMAZ+ on Roku, Amazon Fire TV, and Apple TV.
13WMAZ+ features a 24/7 stream of live newscasts, weather updates, original programming, and video podcasts from the Locked On Sports Network. For more information about 13WMAZ+ and how to download, click here.
Food trucks & fun at Picnic in the Park Saturday
maconbibb.ushttps://www.maconbibb.us/food-trucks-fun-at-picnic-in-the-park-saturday/
Enjoy this beautiful fall weather with some good food, music, and fun at Carolyn Crayton Park (150 Willie Smokie Glover Drive) for the next Picnic in the Park on Saturday, October 12. You can choose from 12 food vendors from 11:00 a.m. until 4:00 p.m.There will be live entertainment from “T-Luv” Todd Davis, wine slushies from Jail Creek Farms, and bounce houses for the kids.“This is the last festival of the season and the weather has been great, so we’re really expecting a great time...
Enjoy this beautiful fall weather with some good food, music, and fun at Carolyn Crayton Park (150 Willie Smokie Glover Drive) for the next Picnic in the Park on Saturday, October 12. You can choose from 12 food vendors from 11:00 a.m. until 4:00 p.m.
There will be live entertainment from “T-Luv” Todd Davis, wine slushies from Jail Creek Farms, and bounce houses for the kids.
“This is the last festival of the season and the weather has been great, so we’re really expecting a great time,” says Recreation Department Director Robert Walker. “There is something for everyone in the family. This is a great opportunity for our community to come out, get to know your neighbors, and have fun.”
Follow the Recreation Department on Facebook for continued information on upcoming events and classes.
We encourage everyone to bring pop-up tents, picnic blankets, or lawn chairs.
Food Vendor Line Up:
A&K Concessions
Streetz Eatz
The Peanut Hut
The South may see northern lights. Here’s when, why & if the aurora will be visible in GA
Chelsea Maddenhttps://www.macon.com/living/article293769309.html
If you want to see the northern lights here in the South, tonight might be the perfect opportunity.The NOAA Space Weather Prediction Center has issued a severe (G4) geomagnetic storm watch for Oct. 10 and Oct. 11.The coronal mass ejections (CMEs) event is “an eruption of solar material and magnetic fields” capable of reaching earth and creating geomagnetic activity.So, what does the storm actually ...
If you want to see the northern lights here in the South, tonight might be the perfect opportunity.
The NOAA Space Weather Prediction Center has issued a severe (G4) geomagnetic storm watch for Oct. 10 and Oct. 11.
The coronal mass ejections (CMEs) event is “an eruption of solar material and magnetic fields” capable of reaching earth and creating geomagnetic activity.
So, what does the storm actually do to Earth once it reaches the planet? Here’s what else to know.
The NOAA reported that a storm of this magnitude could create “Detrimental impacts to some of our critical infrastructure technology.” In the past, the extreme (G5) geomagnetic storm of 2003 created a power outage in Sweden and damaged power transformers in South Africa.
However, for several regions of the U.S., there will be an aurora, which resembles the northern lights. Auroras occur when the sun’s particles get into the earth’s magnetic field and begin to mix with oxygen, creating a beautiful, colorful light show in the sky.
The aurora is likely to be seen over the northern half of the U.S., but some southern states may even get a glimpse of the storm in the night sky. According to the NOAA, parts of Alabama may get to see the northern lights and this visibility could stretch all the way to California.
When the last severe geomagnetic event arrived in May 2024, the NOAA reported it as unlikely for Georgia to see the aurora.
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However, the Telegraph received several comments on Facebook from the public which included photos of the northern lights all across spots like Columbus, Macon and Augusta, Georgia as well as parts of Mississippi.
Watch for updates on the NOAA’s online Aurora Dashboard.
Will you be watching the sky tonight? Let me know in the comments or email me at cmadden@mcclatchy.com.
This story was originally published October 10, 2024, 11:57 AM.
Evacuees look to Macon, Middle Georgia for safety to escape hurricanes Milton, Helene
Lucinda Warnkehttps://www.macon.com/news/weather-news/article293729224.html
READ MOREHurricane Milton is headed toward Florida as a category 4 hurricane, with some experts are calling it “an extremely dangerous threat.” Georgia’s conditions are expected to be the worst Wednesday and Thursday.Expand AllWhen Pauline Rasmussen heard there was a storm coming, she knew she had to leave.A resident of The Villages, Florida, Rasmussen saw the early reports of Hurricane Milton as it made its way across the Atlantic toward her home state and knew it was going to be a storm of ...
READ MORE
Hurricane Milton is headed toward Florida as a category 4 hurricane, with some experts are calling it “an extremely dangerous threat.” Georgia’s conditions are expected to be the worst Wednesday and Thursday.
Expand All
When Pauline Rasmussen heard there was a storm coming, she knew she had to leave.
A resident of The Villages, Florida, Rasmussen saw the early reports of Hurricane Milton as it made its way across the Atlantic toward her home state and knew it was going to be a storm of historic proportions.
The storm, which is set to make landfall near Tampa Wednesday night, is predicted to be a category 4 hurricane. It is reported to be among the most powerful storms ever recorded in the Atlantic Basin.
Rasmussen looked online for where to go, and found a shelter in Macon at the South Bibb Recreation Center. She, her husband and her dog piled into the car and headed north.
“I would tell everybody to just leave and get as far away as you can for your own sake,” Rasmussen said.
Rasmussen isn’t alone. As hurricanes of historic proportions have battered the South this fall, many people fleeing storms and the ensuing destruction have looked to Middle Georgia for refuge.
As Floridians boarded up their houses and loaded their cars to leave ahead of Hurricane Milton, Middle Georgia was making preparations of its own.
Three shelters run by local governments and the American Red Cross opened in Bibb and Houston counties. The shelter Rasmussen found online was one of them.
Numerous other shelters at nonprofits and private businesses have also opened to take people fleeing from the storm. Other evacuees are staying with family members in Middle Georgia.
Red Cross spokesperson Chris Walsh said the Red Cross prepares for hurricane season, which occurs during the summer and fall, months in advance. To host a shelter, local governments offer facilities to the Red Cross, who then vet it to make sure it has adequate space and accommodations.
The shelters are especially necessary because many hotels fill up with evacuees, and not everyone has family outside of the danger zone.
“Hotels are booked because people are on the run,” Walsh said. “They are trying to find somewhere, and (hotels) fill up quick.”
As Hurricane Milton moved toward south Florida over the last week, thousands evacuated. Many people were concerned about the destruction the storm would bring, while others were ordered to evacuate by local authorities.
Gas stations ran out of fuel, and roads backed up for miles. Rasmussen said she and her husband took back roads to reach Macon to avoid getting trapped in bumper-to-bumper traffic on the interstate. They also couldn’t find a place to stop for the night, and had to sleep in a Walmart parking lot.
“It’s better than sitting in traffic,” Rasmussen said. “That hurricane could come in while you’re sitting in traffic.”
Hurricane Milton came just two weeks after Hurricane Helene devastated parts of Georgia, Florida, North Carolina, South Carolina and Tennessee. This means Middle Georgia was already seeing people fleeing hurricanes.
Katie Carmichael went to stay with family in Fort Valley after her home in Baxley was destroyed during Hurricane Helene. While she wanted to stay and help with recovery, she had no power and felt it was safer to leave.
“We knew we didn’t have a generator, we knew we didn’t have any way to try and preserve our food or (care for) our pets,” Carmichael said. “I knew at that point we wouldn’t have power back for a while.”
Carmichael described the towns she passed through as resembling war zones, with fallen trees blocking roads and traffic lights hanging on to their wires by a thread. Even as she was staying in Fort Valley, she returned to Baxley for day trips to help with recovery efforts and realized hundreds in her community were without water and power.
During a visit to Macon on Wednesday, Georgia Gov. Brian Kemp said the state is prepared for the dual issue of recovering after Hurricane Helene and preparing for evacuees from Hurricane Milton.
Kemp said he sent National Guard units to Florida, and is assisting the Georgia Emergency Management Agency as it opens shelters for evacuees across the state. He is also working with the state legislature to help communities in Georgia rebuild after Hurricane Helene.
“I know people are tired of these storms, but we just have to persevere during these times,” Kemp said.
This story was originally published October 10, 2024, 5:00 AM.