Severe storms inflict widespread damage on everything in their path. From pinpoint damage done to homes and structures to large-scale disruptions caused by downed powerlines, the aftermath of a storm leaves communities with the monumental task of picking up the pieces. Making the process harder are many disaster response communication challenges, which require significant effort to overcome.

Thankfully, the growing number of communities affected by server storms and other natural disasters are not alone. When dark clouds gather on the horizon, teams of emergency responders are waiting in the wings to help restore power and communications as soon as possible. However, those teams cannot rely on the regular communications infrastructure as they are repairing it. Disaster response is a collaborative effort between federal, state, and local governments and private sector partners.

In the most recent installment of the Government Technology Insider Podcast, our team heard from Verizon Frontline Response Manager Tetoya Gibson and Client Partner Manager, Nieama Booker about the communications challenges first responders face and shared best practices for overcoming them. Both Tetoya and Niema play a crucial role in helping government organizations respond to disasters and bring a sense of normalcy back to the citizens in affected areas.