In the Aftermath of Hurricanes Irma and Maria, Resilience and Challenges in Puerto Rico and the US Virgin Islands

Nearly six months have passed since Hurricanes Irma and Maria devastated Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands. In the immediate aftermath of the storms, communications networks were virtually wiped out. More than 95% of cell sites were out in Puerto Rico and 77% of cell sites were out in the Virgin Islands. Progress is no doubt being made, with 4.4% and 13.8% of cell sites now out in Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands, respectively. But there's still much work to do, as too many still lack connectivity and basic infrastructure. More compelling than any statistic are the stories I heard on the ground. Earlier this month, along with members of the FCC's Hurricane Task Force, I visited Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands. Following up on my visit to Puerto Rico last year, I wanted to get a firsthand assessment of the recovery and rebuilding efforts, and to hear from residents who shared countless examples of resiliency and inspiration.