Verizon Frontline deploys more assets for Hurricane Ian’s first responders

Rhea-AI Summary

Verizon Frontline has deployed its Tactical Humanitarian Operations Response (THOR) vehicle to assist first responders in the aftermath of Hurricane Ian in Florida. THOR is the first private 5G network-capable mobile emergency operations vehicle, providing vital voice, data, and video communications. Over 400 Verizon Frontline solutions, including drones and mobile hotspots, have been deployed to enhance emergency response. As recovery continues, Verizon focuses on restoring network connectivity, using satellite and microwave connections to optimize service in hard-hit areas.

Positive

• Deployment of THOR, a 5G network-capable emergency vehicle, enhances communication for first responders.
• Over 400 Verizon Frontline solutions, including drones and mobile devices, support emergency operations.

Negative

• Continued reliance on temporary satellite connections in heavily impacted areas delays restoration of services.

FT. MYERS BEACH, Fla., Oct. 05, 2022 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Verizon Frontline deployed its Tactical Humanitarian Operations Response (THOR) vehicle to one of the areas hardest hit by Hurricane Ian. THOR, the first and only private 5G network-capable mobile emergency operations vehicle of its kind, will augment ongoing support of first responders conducting search, rescue, response and recovery missions in and around Ft. Myers Beach, Fla.

Verizon Frontline’s THOR joins more than 100 Verizon and Verizon Frontline assets already in place in Florida to help provide public safety agencies with a reliable connection for mission-critical voice, data and video communications.

“THOR is one of hundreds of state-of-the-art Verizon Frontline assets and solutions we have deployed across Lee County in particular, and many of the hardest-hit areas of Florida, to support those on the front lines of Hurricane Ian response efforts,” said Maggie Hallbach, President, Verizon Frontline. “As these counties begin to rebuild following the devastation left in Ian’s wake, our focus is making sure first responders have the mission-critical technologies they need in their around-the-clock search, rescue and recovery efforts.”

Verizon Frontline’s THOR was developed to provide public safety agencies with high-quality, reliable communications and advanced computing applications under nearly any condition. THOR boasts its own private 5G Ultra Wideband mobile network and features capabilities ranging from commercial satellite options and an onboard drone to operating the vehicle remotely from a tablet, and more.

Additional and ongoing Hurricane Ian recovery efforts
Continuing its mission-critical communications support, the Verizon Frontline Crisis Response Team has now deployed nearly 400 Verizon Frontline solutions including drones, smartphones, routers, mobile hotspots, and portable satellite assets in support of emergency response operations in Florida.

As network restoration and recovery work continues today, the Verizon network team remains focused on cell site optimization work in Lee County and counties north of Polk, Osceola and Hillsborough counties.

In the heavily impacted areas of Southwest Florida, where commercial power remains out, teams continue working to restore cell sites using satellite connections and portable generators. In Lee, Charlotte, DeSoto and Sarasota counties, Verizon’s engineers continue to move sites from temporary satellite connection (which connects cell sites to the rest of the network) to more permanent connection by restoring fiber cables.

Additionally, engineers have completed designs to use microwave connections instead of fiber or satellite, which offers more flexibility in networking and connectivity deployments.

More recovery efforts can be seen on the Verizon Response to Hurricane Ian page which will continue to be updated regularly throughout this event.

Verizon Communications Inc. (NYSE, Nasdaq: VZ) was formed on June 30, 2000 and is one of the world’s leading providers of technology and communications services. Headquartered in New York City and with a presence around the world, Verizon generated revenues of $133.6 billion in 2021. The company offers data, video and voice services and solutions on its award-winning networks and platforms, delivering on customers’ demand for mobility, reliable network connectivity, security and control.

VERIZON’S ONLINE MEDIA CENTER: News releases, stories, media contacts and other resources are available at verizon.com/news. News releases are also available through an RSS feed. To subscribe, visit www.verizon.com/about/rss-feeds/.

Media contact:

Eric Durie
Eric.durie@verizon.com
516-382-8219

Krys Grondorf
krys.grondorf@verizon.com
562-370-0331

FAQ

What is the purpose of Verizon's THOR vehicle?

THOR enhances communication for first responders during emergencies, providing vital connectivity.

How many Verizon Frontline solutions have been deployed in Florida for Hurricane Ian recovery?

Nearly 400 Verizon Frontline solutions, including drones and mobile hotspots, have been deployed.

What impact did Hurricane Ian have on Verizon's network operations?

Hurricane Ian caused significant disruptions, leading Verizon to prioritize restoration of services using temporary solutions.

What technology does THOR utilize for emergency operations?

THOR utilizes a private 5G Ultra Wideband mobile network and features advanced communication and computing applications.

How is Verizon assisting recovery efforts in Lee County post-Hurricane Ian?

Verizon is working to restore cell sites and improve network connectivity in heavily impacted areas using both satellite and microwave technology.