10 Terrifying Things In Georgia That Can (And Just Might) Kill You
By Marisa Roman|Updated on December 28, 2022(Originally published December 23, 2022)
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Marisa Roman
Author
A New Jersey native with over 15 years of writing experience, Marisa has studied at both New York University and Florida International University. She has lived all over the country, including a decade stint in South Florida. Marisa is well-versed in exploration as she travels a good majority of the year in her self-converted Sprinter van. Her articles have been featured in various notable publications over the years, she has a published collection of short stories, and three completed screenplays under her belt.
Ahh, Georgia. Your beauty and impeccable southern charm can be alluring to most. Yet, something tells us you have a dark side. Yes, we can see it perfectly well. There is a dangerous side to you, dear state, that we must discuss. It can’t be just delectable pecan pie and residents smiling at you as you pass on the sidewalk. No, there’s more to this state than we know. Terrifying things are kept within your state lines, that can, and just might kill us. Who knew there were such dangerous bugs in Georgia and other scary things that are looking to cut your life short? You know what we’re talking about, Georgia. And it’s time to expose those dangers to all…
When you first think of the Kissing Bug, you might initially ooh and aww, but really this bug is quite deadly. These bugs can carry a parasite that causes Chagas disease, which can kill you. They are typically found in the southern US and even had reported cases in Georgia in 2015. This bug has also been known as a Wheel Bug, but most people like the term Kissing Bug. We like to say more like the kiss of death!
Although tornadoes in Georgia aren't as frequent as in say, Kansas, there still is a very real threat. Even the Southeast Regional Climate Center will tell you, there are about 20 tornadoes every year in Georgia, with an average annual death rate of 3. The number has fluctuated over time but in 2017 our state saw a massive increase in circulating death winds, 147 were reported that year. That being said it has seemed to slow down, but it's still a threat.
Looking to add some color to your salad? Well, then it probably will be your last. Deadly Nightshade, well, is just that—deadly. Both the foliage and the berries of this plant are extremely toxic. So be careful when perusing through your garden. It is in the name after all but even a tiny bit of this stuff ingested can cause some serious medical problems and the worst of them being death.
Okay, maybe this won't kill you, but it might just come close. Although the Georgia Men's Basketball team usually has a very good winning record overall, their away record is looking quite dismal. It seems their strength is not in away games. If ever they needed their fans, it's now!
The Black Widow, baby. Both the spider AND Iggy Azalea's song being overplayed on the radio can kill you. But the spider more often. They are unusually shy spiders, and hide during the day. It's normally sticking hands in places people can't see that results in a bite.
Snow storms in Georgia can absolutely be deadly. From icing over the roads to damaging homes and cars. It can happen out of nowhere and blanket the state in just a few hours. Not to mention the other drivers; that can be worse than the road conditions. Slow it down, people! Speaking of which that brings us to our next point...
In 2013 alone, there were 116,458 injuries from road-related accidents, and 1,179 fatalities as reported by Georgia Highway Safety. Even if you are an extremely diligent driver, someone else on the road might not be.
There are spots littered throughout the southern U.S. about alligator shows and wrestling with the gators. Sure, some alligators can be tamed, but most? They just might get ya. Be careful whenever you're in a swamp or marshy area. They tend to not like unwelcomed guests.
The number of snake bites was up in 2015 in Georgia, especially from venomous snakes; the Georgia Poison Center had reports of this happening, and don't let it be you next. Keep your eyes peeled whenever hiking, or walking along waterways, or even in your backyard.
Some donkeys just don't like to have their picture taken. Okay, maybe this one is a stretch, but if a donkey says "no pictures" then he really means business.
So there you have it; 10 things in Georgia that are terrifyingly deadly. Everything from dangerous bugs in Georgia to reckless drivers and weather. It is a scary world out there. Be careful out there fellow Georgians, and keep your eyes peeled for those crazy donkeys. Do you have any terrifyingly real stories to share? Start up a conversation in the comments below!
