Hurricane Ian is one of the most devastating hurricanes that Florida has experienced. The damages that the state took have been massive. There have been relief reponses and help from the government as well as other states like Louisiana.
AT&T announced on Thursday that they would be providing free access to their network for non-customers if their carriers have no service. The service includes unlimited access to data, calls, and texts. Other companies such as T-Mobile and Verizon have joined in on the offer on the same day.
This is in response to the damage that the hurricane had caused, which has likely affected communication channels as well. Considering that an estimate of millions still have no access to power, and they are still unclear as to how many are injured or dead, according to 9To5Mac. Furthermore, calls for rescue and relief are partially dependent on the ability to reach out to them.
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How Everyone Is Helping Florida Out
After AT&T offered its free and unlimited services to help the victims, Verizon also stepped up and not only offered its services, they are already working on refueling generators at its cell sites as soon as they could. This is to ensure that people will have cell service throughout the tragedy.
AT&T and Verizon will be providing their relief services of unlimited calling, texting, and data until October 4th, as well as T-Mobile, which will offer the same services until October 3rd.
AT&T, Verizon, and T-mobile are also helping out with public safety agencies and emergency shelters, so they can be certain that the cellphone services are stable to maintain a connection.
Apple CEO Tim Cook also offered relief efforts on the ground. Although they did not specify the kind of help they will be giving or how much they will donate, the help will be appreciated regardless.
How Bad is the Damage Hurricane Ian Caused in Florida?
Governor Ron DeSantis said that he had seen floating cars in the flood and concrete slabs where houses once stood. Over 700 stranded citizens have already been rescued. About 2.6 people still had no power, based on an article from New York Times.
President Joe Biden has already declared that the hurricane's impact was a major disaster and released federal relief funds to the affected areas. A huge rescue effort has been ongoing, and at least ten people have already been found dead.
The damages became clearer as the then tropical storm passed. Trees were toppled, storefronts were shattered, roads were ruined, and cars floated and when with the flow of the flood.
Pictures of fishing boats and cruisers emerged, showing how they have piled on one another and were blown from to water to the shore.
What You Should Do in the Aftermath
As advised by American Red Cross, call your friends and family to let them know you are safe. If you evacuated before the storm, do not return to your homes before authorities declare it safe.
Keep listening to the news for updates and keep children and pets away from floodwater to avoid sickness.
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