As the nation grapples with the COVID-19 pandemic, the looming threat of the Atlantic hurricane season lies in the midst. This year is expected to be the fifth that the Atlantic basin can expect ‘above normal’ tropical activity as it heads into hurricane season, according to a forecast released this week. Forecasters warn there will be 18 storms – several of which will hit the US. 

Storm Surge and Inland Flooding take more lives and cause more damage than all other risks combined from Tropical Storms, Hurricanes, and Major Hurricanes – including widespread power outages that can last days, sometimes weeks.

IP Access is prepared to provide end-to-end communication services, including VSAT terminals and satellite bandwidth access to support vital communications needed if terrestrial-based infrastructure is damaged or destroyed. With high-speed service up to 20 X 5 Mbps available from our multi-satellite Select Network, there is no reason any critical network within the U.S. should remain unprepared.

PROJECTIONS

• 23 states at risk for moderate to severe flooding this spring, experts say
• “Warmer-than-average temperatures are expected from coast-to-coast”
• Drought conditions are expected to persist and expand throughout California
• Meteorologists expect to see seven to nine hurricanes, with about two to four of them becoming major hurricanes

Throughout hurricane season, IP Access actively monitors the weather as a daily routine to stay ahead of these developing storms and their potential tracks. Once a disaster is in view or has struck, having communications equipment on-hand is critical. Planning to meet the recovery efforts needed for natural or other disasters should include advance purchases of equipment and service for first responders, public safety agencies and others called upon for emergency communications support.

BEFORE THE STORM HITS

• We are reaching out to our customers and reviewing their communications needs
• We are determining what can be physically brought in after the disaster
• We stage emergency equipment in strategic locations across the areas expected to be affected
• Generators and backup power systems at our teleports are serviced and topped off with fuel in the event of extended power outages. 
• Customers are made aware of all equipment we have available (anything that is not currently rented or retained by existing customers) 
  • For customers: 48+ hours in advance needed for any additional equipment needs.

DURING AND AFTER THE STORM

• We remain on alert to receive urgent requests for satellite equipment and services
• We continue to monitor all network activity and customer requirements
• Additional bandwidth and other resources are added as needed to meet customer requirements

The post-storm period is when we experience the greatest demand for services as recovery efforts begin in areas with damaged infrastructure. To support this demand we continue to be available for support and additional resources.

Just as we prepare our network, solutions, and personnel, IP Access encourages customers to consider the following as Hurricane Season starts to reveal itself.