Critical Lifelines: The Role of Amateur Radio and Preparedness in North Carolina's Hurricane Helene Response"

 Leveraging Amateur Radio Systems and Advanced Handheld Devices to Strengthen Emergency Communication Networks Before and After Disasters"

The question has been - "Were all communication systems down or out of commission for extended periods of time during the recent disaster in North Carolina?"

Answer - No. Many analog systems were operational and back to operational status within several days after the damage had impacted the area.

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Key Point in any potential disaster scenario -

Prepare Your Emergency Communication Equipment Ahead of Any Disaster.

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Wherever neighborhood systems were "down" for extended periods, but were, however, in-hand and otherwise mechanically operational and with power, then their "nonoperational status" would have been the result of those handheld systems not having been initially prepared to communicate with frequency confirmation ahead of the disaster.

Map of Fusion Repeaters

1. :

   • : Supported both analog and digital (C4FM) communications during the disaster, enabling emergency coordination.

   • Other Fusion repeaters in Western North Carolina provided dual-mode capabilities, ensuring connectivity for mixed analog and digital users.

2. :

   • The Viking Mountain Repeater (145.410 MHz), initially down due to power outages, was restored within days using donated batteries.

1. :

   • The D10 can connect to the analog side of Fusion repeaters by programming UHF/VHF frequencies, such as those used by Mt. Mitchell.

   • Pre-programming ensures seamless integration into amateur radio networks during emergencies.

2. :

   • Provided reliable communication for field teams when cellular networks were down.

   • Rugged design and long battery life made them ideal for flood-affected areas.

3. :

   • The D10 does not support C4FM digital mode, restricting its use to analog features of Fusion repeaters.

• Pre-program D10 radios with local repeater frequencies for immediate deployment.

• Deploy mobile repeaters to extend communication range for both amateur radios and D10 devices when fixed systems are damaged.

Forging Ahead

Moving down the Line With Confidence in Emergency Service Preparedness -

Comprehensive Outline for Emergency Communication Preparedness Like D10 Radios, Amateur Radio Systems, Mobile Repeaters and Other Similar Wireless Systems

I. Overview of the North Carolina Flood Disaster

Impact on Communication Infrastructure:

Cellular towers and power grids were severely damaged, isolating communities.

Amateur radio operators played a critical role in maintaining emergency communication through operational repeaters and HF frequencies.

Some amateur radio systems, such as the Viking Mountain Repeater, were temporarily down but restored within days using donated batteries.

II. Verified Operational and Non-Operational Radio Systems

Operational Systems:

Mt. Mitchell Repeater (145.19 MHz): Provided wide coverage and supported emergency nets for health and welfare updates.

HF Frequencies (40m and 80m bands): Used for regional communication across state lines when local repeaters were insufficient.

Non-Operational Systems:

Viking Mountain Repeater: Initially down due to power loss but restored within days with battery donations.

Other localized repeaters were affected by flooding or power outages but were repaired within a week.

III. Importance of Handheld Radios Like the KaYoTom D10

Key Features of D10 Radios:

Dual-mode operation: UHF/VHF analog compatibility for local communication and 4G LTE Push-to-Talk for long-range/global connectivity.

Rugged design: Waterproof and dust-proof (IP65-rated), suitable for harsh disaster conditions.

Long battery life: Equipped with a 6800mAh battery lasting up to 7 days.

GPS integration: Real-time tracking for locating teams or individuals during search-and-rescue operations.

Advantages During Disasters:

Immediate deployment with pre-programmed frequencies ensures readiness when infrastructure fails.

Dual-mode capability bridges gaps between amateur radio systems and modern cellular networks.

Enables team coordination over wide areas when local repeaters are down.

IV. Importance of Pre-Programming Handheld Radios

Aspect Pre-Programming Effects Ahead of Disasters

+ Post-disaster setup ease of use ready for immediate deployment.

- Time-consuming manual setup delays response efforts.

+ Access to networks ensures compatibility with local amateur repeaters and emergency channels.

- May struggle to identify active frequencies or repeaters.

+ Coordination facilitates seamless communication with pre-assigned groups or teams.

- Delayed coordination due to frequency scanning or tuning.

+ Reliability tested configurations ensure stable operation.

- Risk of misconfiguration under pressure.

V. Role of Mobile Repeaters in Extending Communication

Usefulness After Disasters:

Mobile repeaters can bridge gaps when stationary amateur radio systems are damaged or inaccessible.

They extend the range of handheld radios like the D10, allowing communication between dispatch centers, field teams, and affected communities.

Examples of Deployment:

Portable repeaters can be quickly set up in disaster zones to restore connectivity for both amateur radios and D10 devices.

Mobile units like Tactical Rapid Advanced Communications Kits (TRaCK Box) ensure secure communication networks in remote areas.

Advantages:

Enable real-time updates and coordination over wide areas.

Provide redundancy in case primary systems fail again during recovery efforts.

VI. Importance of Establishing Handheld Radio Systems Before Other Disasters

Scenarios Where Handheld Radios Are Critical:

Tornadoes: Can destroy cellular towers and amateur radio infrastructure; handheld radios provide immediate local communication.

Earthquakes: Severely damage infrastructure; rugged handheld devices like the D10 become essential for rescue coordination.

Wildfires: Spread rapidly over large areas, often cutting off power; handheld radios ensure continuous communication for evacuation and firefighting efforts.

Lessons from Recent Disasters:

In Maui wildfires, tethered drones with cellular nodes were deployed to restore temporary networks, highlighting the need for portable solutions like handheld radios and mobile repeaters during infrastructure failures.

VII. Proposed Plan for Future Disaster Preparedness

Procurement of Handheld Radios:

Invest in KaYoTom D10 radios for emergency responders to ensure dual-mode connectivity (UHF/VHF + LTE).

Pre-Programming and Testing:

Program radios with local repeater frequencies, NOAA weather alerts, and emergency channels.

Conduct regular testing with amateur radio operators to verify compatibility.

Deployment of Mobile Repeaters:

Equip disaster response teams with portable repeaters to extend communication range when fixed systems are down.

Use mobile units to connect isolated areas back to central command centers.

Training and Simulations:

Train personnel on proper use of handheld radios and mobile repeaters.

Simulate disaster scenarios to test system reliability under pressure.

Backup Power Solutions:

Include solar chargers or portable generators in emergency kits to keep handheld devices operational during prolonged outages.

Collaboration With Amateur Radio Operators:

Partner with local ham radio clubs to integrate handheld radios into existing networks during emergencies.

Annual Inspections and Updates:

Perform routine maintenance on handheld radios, mobile repeaters, and other equipment to ensure readiness.

VIII. Benefits of Investing in KaYoTom D10 Radios and Mobile Repeaters

Ensures robust communication even when primary systems fail due to disasters like floods, tornadoes, earthquakes, or fires.

Provides redundancy through dual-mode operation (analog + LTE) for short- and long-range connectivity.

Enhances safety through features like GPS tracking and panic buttons.

Reduces downtime by enabling immediate deployment with pre-programmed channels.

Strengthens coordination between first responders, amateur radio operators, relief teams, and mobile dispatch centers.

IX. Conclusion

By investing in KaYoTom D10 radios alongside mobile repeaters, organizations can ensure comprehensive disaster preparedness that bridges gaps in communication when traditional networks fail. This forward-thinking approach empowers communities by providing reliable tools for both immediate response and long-term recovery efforts during disasters like floods, tornadoes, earthquakes, or fires.

The Peacekeeping Task Force, PeaceBridgeNetwork, and American Peacekeeping Communications have invested in themselves as Emergency Service Providers and their dedication to building upon the expertise to implement these solutions effectively.  By managing preemptive preparation of communication systems while also deploying mobile dispatch centers equipped with advanced repeaters after disasters strike, these emergency peacekeepers will be much better prepared during future catastrophies. With their capabilities, communities can build a resilient communication network that saves lives and accelerates recovery in even the most challenging circumstances.

Ongoing Recovery Exercise for Impacted American States in the Southeast

Our original report went out to the Federation of States and to all other affected American State Assemblies since the weather catastrophe began over the weekend.

The following are reports as they come in post-incident from 24 hours out and earlier, depending on our reliable sources.

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Situational Update: Southeast Weather Devastation and Ongoing Recovery Efforts

Date: Within the last 24 hours
Source: PKTF - External S2 Communications Wire System (Reliable)

Overview

The southeastern United States is experiencing catastrophic damage from Hurricane Helene, coinciding with a significant dock worker union strike set to begin, which will shut down most East Coast ports. A nationwide Verizon outage has also affected communications across the United States.

Communication Challenges

Cellular communications have been strained due to increased demand throughout the Southeast, leading to localized outages. The cause of this national outage remains undisclosed but is possibly unrelated to storm damage. The widespread telecom issues present an exceptionally vulnerable target for malicious actors, both foreign and domestic.

Dock Worker Union Strike

The International Longshoremen's Association (ILA) has initiated a strike at ports from Maine to Texas, marking the first such action since 1977. This strike could severely disrupt supply chains, creating shortages and increasing prices if prolonged. High-risk rail freight has already been halted to prevent hazardous materials from being stranded.

Impact on Logistics

The labor strike is expected to have catastrophic impacts on logistics, particularly in the already devastated American Southeast. East Coast ports being shut down, combined with the apocalyptic damage reported in the Southeast, could lead to a near-total breakdown of cargo operations.

Hurricane Helene's Devastation

In North Carolina, devastation remains at historic levels with potentially thousands missing. The Department of Transportation has urged everyone to consider all roads in Western North Carolina closed until further notice. Asheville, a major metropolitan center, has suffered severe damage with roads blocked or impassable. In Florida, the city of Okeechobee is under a state of de facto martial law as Chief of Police Donald Hagan signed a local state of emergency declaration nullifying the Second Amendment and banning ammunition sales.

Recovery Efforts

The North Carolina National Guard has deployed 500 soldiers and 200 aircraft and vehicles to aid citizens during this disaster. However, federal resources have been slow to flow into the region due to bureaucratic delays. Most recovery efforts are centered on Asheville, North Carolina, where 100,000 residents are without food and water.

Coordination by The Peacekeeping Task Force (PKTF)

The Peacekeeping Task Force is coordinating efforts to establish a robust communications network to mitigate future telecom failures during disasters. This initiative aims to ensure reliable communication channels for effective recovery and coordination efforts. Despite Florida not having an established published website for emergency contacts, The Florida Assembly does have an active PKTF Assembly Liaison in-training who assists in relaying critical situational details between PKTF, the Federation of States, and The Florida State Assembly in the meantime. Our offices have been able to contact each of the other American State Assemblies via their current website publication through either their direct Contact Section or Comments Section of their blog postings. Contact along these lines has been largely successful by all affected State Assemblies at this time. Although reaction time and ongoing communication threads are being improved for future encounters as we speak.

Importance of State Assembly Websites

Each American State Assembly having a versatile website with up-to-date emergency contact information is crucial for effective disaster response. As for other State Assemblies like The Florida Assembly at this time, the absence of such a resource has posed significant challenges for PKTF's coordination efforts.

Recent Developments

 

Governor Ron DeSantis announced that Florida secured a major disaster declaration for Hurricane Helene.

 

President Joe Biden plans to visit affected regions later this week without disrupting emergency services.

 

Vice President Kamala Harris will cut short a campaign trip to visit storm-ravaged areas.

 

Over 500 people have been rescued in North Carolina amidst severe communication challenges.