Verizon’s network in the Lamar County area has had a few major hiccups since December, and local customers, including those other carriers that piggyback on Verizon’s towers, are experiencing another major outage.
On December 11, 2024, we published this story on Barnesvillebuzz.com, and many had hoped it would not become a recurring issue. However, similar interruptions have happened at least twice since the original story, sending Barnesville back to the nostalgic days of the 90’s decade. So in the meantime, put on your mood ring or bucket hat, and go check on your Tamagotchi pet. Have you fed it lately?
According to Verizon, the company started experiencing interruptions at 2:11 PM. They first detected this issue at 2:20 PM. Verizon’s network engineers began working on diagnosing the problem at 2:36 PM.
Repairs are pending as the company has said that it could be another 12-24 hour outage. However, Verizon has estimated that its network will be functioning normally at 2:11 AM—12 hours after the network went down.
Internet, voice, and text functions can be operated on a very limited basis currently. Users can operate their cell phones when connected to a local WiFi network. So if your home internet is not Verizon, you will be in good shape!
Several locals have sought out other mobile carrier options today due to the unpredictability of Verizon. Though it has long had the reputation of setting the standard for reliability in our local area, perhaps this will be what will push many Lamar County residents to another carrier. Many have considered switching to T-Mobile, a network that is truly competitive with Verizon in the Lamar County area.
Update for clarification: Some T-Mobile users are experiencing similar issues in Lamar County.
Whatever Lamar County residents decide to do personally, losing cell phone service for a significant amount of time is especially problematic for those who rely on Verizon’s services for their jobs and businesses.
In the meantime, stay connected wherever and however you can.
Grant Turner is the editor of the Barnesville Buzz and an educator, coach, and writer based in Barnesville, Georgia. He shares stories that bridge community, faith, and personal growth. In addition to teaching and coaching, Grant is Director of Musical Worship and a Sunday School teacher at New Hope Baptist Church in Zebulon, Georgia. He lives in Barnesville with his wife, Haley.
