Verizon Flying Drones, Internet Connectivity In Florida Affected By Hurricane Ian

Verizon drone display in Florida (photo: Verizon)

JAKARTA - Verizon, a New York-based telecommunications company, has released a drone to provide cellular connectivity to respondents working on search and rescue missions for hurricane victims Ian in Florida.

The drone being flown is claimed to be able to fly up to 1,000 hours and capable of emitting 4G and 5G coverages for an estimated radius of five to seven miles.

"Verizon has launched a drone that provides cellular range from the air to support the first search and rescue and rescue teams on the ground. Drones provide coverage for an estimated radius of 5-7 miles and can fly for up to 1,000 hours," the company wrote in its announcement shared on Twitter.

Launching Dailymail, Cory Davis as National Director for Verizon Frontline's Public Safety Response and Operations Team, said mobile companies had supported more than 50 first-response agents with its resources covering more than 100 assets.

Along with drone deliveries, Davis added, Verizon uses satellites that emit internet from low-Earth orbit, generators are installed into trailers and recently sent portable mobile sites with barges to Sanibel Island, which have been completely cut off by the storm.

"Currently we have 13 mobile sites deployed and six mobile satellite links powering damaged mobile sites," the company said further.

In its update, Verizon said that it was expanding support for the districts most affected by Hurricane Ian.

Always ready to jump into action - The Verizon Frontline Crisis Response Team remains deployed across Florida helping customers to connect with their loved ones & providing mission-critical communications support to first responders. Stay up to date here: https://t.co/5Zvrve9tpZ pic.twitter.com/QxNrcDrq4T

— Verizon (@Verizon) October 4, 2022

Customer customers and small businesses in the following countries will continue to receive unlimited calls, SMS, and data until October 11, 2022: