Following Hurricane Helen in North Carolina, a total of 370 mobile towers were damaged, and 103 others were placed on reserve status, causing significant communication issues for local residents. The impact of the hurricane was not limited to North Carolina, as neighboring states such as Florida, Georgia, South Carolina, Tennessee, and Virginia also experienced communication disruptions. The U.S. Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has activated a restoration operation in these states and published a detailed list of affected districts and the reasons behind the communication failures.
Among the hardest-hit districts were Avery, Mitchell, and Yancey, where less than 10% of communication objects were fully operational. In North Carolina, the FCC also reported the cessation of two local television channels and two FM radio stations. Despite the emergency plans in place by internet providers, including reserve generators and fuel supplies, the severe floods caused by the hurricane rendered these measures insufficient. Some equipment was completely flooded, making the reserve generators ineffective.
In a surprising move to aid in communication restoration efforts, Apple introduced a new feature in iOS 18 that allows users to send messages through satellites. This development aims to help residents in affected areas stay connected with their loved ones. Additionally, Apple has pledged support by directing donations towards hurricane relief efforts.
Di Davis, President of the non-profit organization Center for Rural Strategies, highlighted the critical importance of communication during emergencies, emphasizing the distress experienced by individuals unable to contact their families. Natural disasters like Hurricane Helen underscore the vulnerability of current network infrastructure and the necessity of innovative solutions to ensure reliable communication in extreme conditions. This situation serves as a reminder of the value of human solidarity and mutual assistance in times of crisis.