AT&T Networks Prepare for Hurricane Ian

TAMPA, Fla., Sept. 26, 2022

AT&T* is ready for Hurricane Ian with an arsenal of disaster response equipment and personnel on standby to support impacted communities and public safety on FirstNet® – America’s public safety network.

We are closely monitoring and preparing for Hurricane Ian. The storm is expected to impact Florida over the next few days. Our preparation includes:

• Topping off fuel for generators.
• Protecting physical facilities against flooding.
• Staging other emergency response and network recovery equipment in strategic locations for quick deployment following the storm.
• Staging dedicated FirstNet deployable network assets for use by public safety agencies on FirstNet to request as needed.

As we have in the past, we have installed more generators at critical cell towers and switching facilities, and moved electronics essential to network operations above expected flood levels. Additionally, our Network Disaster Recovery (NDR) team is on standby in Florida and prepared to deploy assets as needed.

“Customers and first responders rely on us, especially during major storms,” said Joe York, president, AT&T Florida. “That’s why we practice readiness drills and simulations throughout the year. And we do all we can to have our networks prepared when severe weather strikes. We’ve worked for the past few days to position equipment and crews and are ready to respond when needed. We’re also closely linked with Florida public officials in their storm response efforts.”

The AT&T Network Disaster Recovery (NDR) program is one of the industry’s largest and most advanced disaster response programs. Our fleet includes hundreds of technology recovery and support trailers that can be quickly deployed to support customers and first responders.

Response equipment readied in the wake of an event includes:

• Mobile cell sites and command centers
• Portable generators and fuel
• Amphibious vehicles to reach equipment in flooded areas
• Emergency communications vehicles (ECVs)
• Drones for assessing cell site damage
• Self-sufficient base camps: complete with sleeping bunks, bathrooms, kitchen, laundry facilities, an on-site nurse and meals ready to eat (MREs).
• Hazmat equipment and supplies
• Technology and support trailers to provide infrastructure support and mobile heating ventilation and air conditioning
• Internal and external resources for initial assessment and recovery efforts

Just as we prepare, we encourage residents to do the same. Additional information and tips for disaster preparedness can be found on our Disaster Recovery page.