Hurricane Update
Georgia Tourism Partners,
In response to Hurricanes Helene and Milton, our teams are focused on hurricane preparation, recovery, and response efforts.
Hurricane Helene has devastated communities across Georgia as well as in our neighboring states. Our hearts are with all those who have been impacted by the storm. We recognize that it will take time to recover, and we are thankful for everyone actively working to help Georgians and our neighbors. Please keep us updated on how your communities are doing, and let us know how we can help as we move forward together.
We are now also preparing for Hurricane Milton as it approaches Florida’s west coast and Southeast Georgia. We urge you to monitor the National Hurricane Center’s website for the latest forecast and updates. Meanwhile, we are welcoming evacuees to find refuge in areas of Georgia that are open and prepared for visitors.
The following information and resources regarding Hurricanes Helene and Milton are available for you and your partners.
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Georgia Travel Alerts
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- Ahead of what is expected to be Florida’s largest evacuation since Hurricane Irma in 2017, Explore Georgia’s Travel Alerts web page has been updated with evacuee resources in preparation for Hurricane Milton.
- Information and resources regarding Georgia’s recovery efforts for Hurricane Helene are also available on the page.
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Hurricane Milton Evacuee Resources
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- Where to go: Due to widespread damage across many Georgia counties from Hurricane Helene’s impact, including limited resources in South Georgia, we are advising Florida evacuees to find refuge in areas such as Albany, Columbus, Macon, Savannah, Atlanta, Cartersville, Ellijay, and Dahlonega.
- Shelters: The Red Cross will be opening evacuation shelters for Florida evacuees starting October 8 at 5 p.m. The shelter locations will soon be available here.
- Lodging availability: Access real-time Georgia hotel and private rental availability through Tripadvisor and Airbnb.
- Georgia State Parks are open for RVs and campers, including pets, and some equestrian facilities are available. Check GaStateParks.org/Alerts for closures, updates, and availability.
- Pet-friendly accommodations are updated in real-time and searchable by location on Pets Welcome.
- Visitor Services: All nine Georgia Visitor Information Centers are currently open daily from 8:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. and are available to assist with identifying accommodations and travel information. Restrooms are open 24/7 at the Valdosta, St. Marys, and Port Wentworth (Savannah) centers, which are situated on or near evacuation routes. All other restrooms are open from 7 a.m. to 11 p.m. Locations and contact information can be found here.
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Hurricane Helene Recovery Resources
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As we continue working together as a state to help our affected communities get back on their feet after Hurricane Helene, we recognize the vital role tourism can play in recovering and rebuilding from the storm.
Those looking for ways to support Georgia’s recovery efforts can find information regarding donations and volunteer opportunities below:
- The Salvation Army has established several sites in various hurricane-stricken areas, offering meals to those in need. Please click here to view the listing.
- Georgia businesses and organizations can find resources on the Georgia Department of Economic Development website, which offers tools and information to help navigate recovery.
- For individuals wishing to volunteer to help in Hurricane Helene’s recovery efforts, fill out this application form. If an organization needs your service, they will contact you.
- Each University of Georgia (UGA) Cooperative Extension District has established a drop-off location(s) for supplies requested in various affected areas. Find a list of locations and requested items on Explore Georgia’s Travel Alerts web page.
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If you have questions, please direct them to Communications Manager Cayla Cardwell at ccardwell@georgia.org.
Thank you for everything you do to serve those who travel to and within Georgia. We will send you updates as necessary.
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