Verizon’s network proved its resilience as Hurricane Beryl hit the Houston area this week. With backup battery power at all macro cell sites and backup generator power at ninety percent of sites, Verizon swiftly restored connectivity for almost all its customers, even amidst widespread power outages. Sandra Loughridge, Associate VP of Network Engineering at Verizon, emphasized the company’s commitment to preparing its network for extreme conditions and praised the team’s efforts to keep customers and first responders connected throughout the crisis.
Since the hurricane’s landfall, Verizon’s dedicated engineers have been working tirelessly to assess damage, restore power and fiber connections, and ensure the functionality of backup systems such as batteries and generators. The Verizon Response Team deployed seven mobile assets, including STEERs, SPOT, and STUD, to various locations in Houston, providing essential communication support to public safety agencies and Emergency Operation Centers.
Collaborating closely with 20 federal, state, and local emergency management teams, the Verizon Frontline Crisis Response Team played a crucial role in deploying a range of Verizon Frontline solutions, including drones, smartphones, routers, mobile hotspots, and portable satellite assets. These resources greatly supported emergency response and recovery operations in the region. Notably, the Verizon Frontline Crisis Response Team offers on-demand, no-cost emergency assistance to government agencies and emergency responders, ensuring seamless communication during crisis situations.
Verizon also extended its support to the community by setting up portable cell sites, Wi-Fi hotspots, charging stations, and other solutions at community centers across Houston. Additionally, the company waived domestic call, text, and data usage costs for postpaid consumer customers and small business customers in storm-affected areas in Texas, demonstrating its commitment to helping customers during challenging times.
Verizon Communications Inc., a global leader in telecommunications, powers and empowers millions of customers worldwide. With a focus on mobility, reliable network connectivity, and security, Verizon generated revenues of $134.0 billion in 2023. The company’s continuous innovation and customer-centric approach position it as a leading provider of cutting-edge solutions for today’s needs and tomorrow’s demands.
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