Forwarding from Ben AI6YR Good plug for ham radio. Link at the bottom has more info.
Dave Ai6vx
---------- Forwarded message ---------- From: *Kuo, Benjamin - AI6YR via groups.io http://groups.io* <kk6fut= gmail.com@groups.io> Date: Saturday, September 28, 2024 Subject: [vc-acs] Ham radio/Helene/North Carolina (via K4SWL)
For those who haven't been tracking it, Hurricane Helene has decimated all of the roads in western North Carolina, and also power/Internet/communications. Some lessons from a ham there (who is one of the few people able to get information out).
Ben AI6YR
From K4SWL, North Carolina:
"..
The only reason I can post this update is because we have solar panels and battery backup. The system wasn’t designed for what may be two or more weeks without power, but by conserving energy, we’re able to live comfortably and help our neighbors.
We also recently switched to a satellite-based internet service (a new option from HughesNet), which is why we still have internet access. Mobile phone systems in the region are completely down, and almost no one has service—including local TV reporters. A large portion of the population here is without internet, according to reports.
Even the 911 system is largely inaccessible. Residents are being urged to text 911 in emergencies, but in many areas, even that’s not possible.
I’ve heard it all my life: when all else fails, ham radio still works. And let me tell you, it’s true.
Throughout the storm, our normally quiet repeater systems were buzzing with activity. The traffic became very organized, with hourly nets helping pass messages to family and friends, sharing detailed on-the-ground reports, and identifying areas where help was needed. Even though our emergency services are overwhelmed, we’re able to connect with them via amateur radio networks like ARES.
Right now, being a ham feels like a superpower. For many people, it’s the only form of communication that still works..."
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Dave Schmidt