Disaster-Ready Connectivity: 10 Steps to Help Build Broadband Resilience

As communities across the Southeast US continue recovery efforts following the devastating hurricanes of late summer, one refrain stands out: connectivity is critical in disaster scenarios, and when the internet goes down, communities are cut off. Unfortunately, with climate-related risks increasing, many more communities are likely to face challenges in the coming decades. Resiliency in our local infrastructure—including broadband—is becoming ever more critical. Drawing from our partners and experts, these steps, ranging from immediate interventions to long-term strategies, can help communities respond now and prepare for the future by strengthening their broadband infrastructure.

1. Conduct a Damage Assessment
2. Prioritize Restoration of Critical Communication Points
3. Identify and Leverage Federal and State Assistance
4. Engage Residents and Community Groups
5. Think Creatively During Infrastructure Repairs
6. Prioritize Hardened, Weather-Resistant Infrastructure
7. Create Redundant and Decentralized Networks
8. Monitor and Strengthen Broadband Networks
9. Implement Long-Term Digital Resilience
10. Develop a Connectivity Plan