Apple and Starlink Services Restore Connectivity During Helene Crisis

TLDR

• Apple’s satellite messaging feature in iOS 18 is helping iPhone users communicate during Hurricane Helene crisis
• Approximately 400,000 residents in North Carolina are without power or cell service
• Starlink terminals are being deployed in affected areas to restore communication
• The Y’all Group is airlifting Starlink hardware to remote areas
• Over 1.7 million customers across several states are experiencing power outages

In the wake of Hurricane Helene’s devastating impact on the southeastern United States, satellite technologies from Apple and Starlink are emerging as vital lifelines for affected communities.

As traditional communication infrastructure falters, these innovative solutions are helping residents stay connected and potentially saving lives in the process.

Hurricane Helene has left a trail of destruction across several states, with North Carolina bearing the brunt of the storm’s fury.

The hurricane dumped unprecedented amounts of rainfall, leading to widespread flooding and power outages. According to recent reports, approximately 400,000 residents in North Carolina alone are without power or cellular service, leaving many isolated and unable to communicate through conventional means.

In this dire situation, Apple’s latest iOS 18 update has proven to be unexpectedly crucial. The update includes a satellite messaging feature for iPhone 14 models and later, allowing users to send messages even when cellular and WiFi networks are down.

This technology uses satellites orbiting Earth to transmit messages, bypassing the need for ground-based infrastructure.

Asheville resident Matt Van Swol shared his experience with the new feature on social media, stating, “I’ve never been more thankful to be an iPhone user.”

I’ve never been more thankful to be an iPhone user.

Due to the lack of cell service, EVERYONE in Asheville NC right now on iOS 18 has been able to get messages out and in with the Satellite messaging feature.

This is literally saving lives @Apple. pic.twitter.com/k0FOIgKlRk

— Matt Van Swol (@matt_vanswol) September 30, 2024

Van Swol explained that the feature “kinda just popped up for me and was like ‘connect to satellite,’” enabling him and others in the area to send and receive messages despite the lack of cellular service.

While Apple’s technology is helping iPhone users, another satellite-based solution is being deployed to assist a broader range of affected residents.

Elon Musk’s Starlink, known for its satellite internet service, is playing a significant role in restoring communication in hard-hit areas.

Starlink terminals, which can provide internet access via satellite, are being distributed across the impacted regions.

The Y’all Group, a nonprofit organization focused on supporting communities affected by severe weather events, is spearheading efforts to deploy Starlink terminals.

Ryan Hall, a volunteer with the group, reported that they are working closely with local officials to ensure the hardware reaches the most remote and affected areas quickly.

First round of @Starlink terminals are airborne. We’re working with local officials to make sure they get to the remote areas that need them as quickly as possible. We’re also paying for unlimited data plans for each one. This is one of many things @TheYallSquad is doing thanks… pic.twitter.com/LOfiSjYtS6

— Ryan Hall, Y’all (@ryanhallyall) September 30, 2024

The organization is also covering the cost of unlimited data plans for each terminal, further reducing barriers to communication for those in need.

The impact of Hurricane Helene extends far beyond North Carolina. As of the latest reports, over 1.7 million customers across several states and territories are without power.

South Carolina is currently experiencing the highest number of outages, with 672,986 affected customers. Georgia follows closely with 521,226 outages, while North Carolina reports 390,182. Virginia and Florida are also significantly impacted, with more than 90,000 and 89,000 outages respectively.

These widespread power outages underscore the critical importance of satellite-based communication technologies in disaster scenarios.

When traditional infrastructure fails, these systems can provide a crucial link to the outside world, enabling affected individuals to reach out for help, connect with loved ones, and access vital information.

The current situation highlights the potential of satellite technologies to enhance disaster preparedness and response.

As climate change potentially increases the frequency and intensity of severe weather events, the role of such technologies in maintaining communication during crises may become increasingly important.