Georgia officials talk about damage to utilities as a result of Hurricane Helene (pt. 2)

Introduction

In a recent meeting, Ronda Chadham, the executive director of the Georgia's Rural Telephone and Broadband Association, provided an update on the impact of Hurricane Helene on telecommunications in the state. Chadham noted that her members, which include 22 rural telephone and broadband providers, experienced significant outages and damages due to the storm. Currently, 13 companies reported damage, affecting approximately 4,000 customers primarily in the areas hardest hit by the storm.

Chadham outlined specific companies affected by outages including Alma, ATC Broadband, Brantley, Bulloch, Tom South, Daran, Glenwood, Pimbrook, Pack Fiber, Pineland, True Vista, Planters Progressive Rural, TDS, and Wilcox Reliant. Most outages stem from power issues, and restoration is reliant on electric companies. Many telecommunications infrastructure installations are underground, which mitigated some storm damage, but there were aerial segments that suffered substantial destruction.

The report discussed challenges faced by providers, including securing continuous propane supplies for generators used during prolonged outages. Chadham mentioned collaboration between memebrs and the Georgia Propane Association as helpful in locating propane supplies. Some challenges included theft of generators and the need to troubleshoot additional customer equipment once power was restored.

Chadham emphasized that the majority of her members have temporarily halted disconnections for non-payment, and many customers are still able to make payments. She encouraged anyone experiencing issues to get in touch with her directly for assistance.

Following Chadham's update, representatives from Verizon, including Mark P. and Leo Caralt, highlighted their ongoing response efforts. From the onset of the storm, Verizon’s crisis management team was activated, ensuring real-time coordination of response efforts. They reported damage to their network, particularly in southeast Georgia, and have been deploying emergency response teams to restore service as quickly as possible.

Verizon indicated that they mobilized specialized teams and assets to address the storm's impact, including their dedicated mobile network response team, which employs unique technologies such as cells on wheels and drones to restore communication services. With progress over recent days, significant numbers of macro cells have been put back into service thanks to partnerships with local agencies and continuous logistical support.

Both Chadham and Verizon representatives underscored the importance of communication during recovery efforts and the role of community engagement in coordinating services. The necessity for keeping critical infrastructure operational, especially for first responders, was reiterated as recovery efforts continue.

Keyword

• Hurricane Helene
• Georgia
• telecommunications
• outages
• power restoration
• rural broadband
• Verizon
• relief efforts
• propane supply
• emergency response

FAQ

Q: How many telecommunications companies are affected by Hurricane Helene?
A: Currently, 13 telecommunications companies are reporting damages and outages due to Hurricane Helene.

Q: What is the estimated number of customers without service?
A: Approximately 4,000 customers are currently without service as a result of the storm.

Q: Are telecommunications companies halting disconnections for non-payment?
A: Yes, most companies have suspended disconnections for non-payment due to the storm's impact.

Q: What is Verizon doing to restore services?
A: Verizon has activated its crisis management and emergency response teams to restore communication services efficiently, deploying specialized technologies and personnel to prioritize critical areas.

Q: How can customers report issues or get assistance?
A: Customers can reach out to their service providers, and specific inquiries can be directed to Ronda Chadham's email if they have trouble connecting with their local provider.