Hurricane Milton Relief: Free Internet Options for Affected Households

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Last Updated: Oct 14, 2024
Hurricane, as seen from space.
Hurricane Milton has prevented people in affected areas from accessing the internet.

Following the devastation caused by Hurricanes Helene and Milton, internet service providers (ISPs) and government agencies are offering free and discounted internet services to help those impacted. Below, we’ve compiled a comprehensive guide on how you can access free or low-cost internet services if you’ve been affected by the storm.

Current Connectivity Status in Affected Regions

The overall connectivity in the regions affected by Hurricane Helene has shown significant progress. Many areas across North Carolina, South Carolina, Georgia, Tennessee, and Florida have seen gradual restoration of internet services, although challenges remain, especially with power and transport infrastructure affecting cell site operations. This is especially true in Florida which was additionally impacted by Hurricane Milton.

Residents affected by hurricanes can take advantage of free Wi-Fi and internet services being offered by several major ISPs across Georgia, South Carolina, North Carolina, Tennessee, and Florida.

The FCC has also expanded access to its Lifeline program for those impacted by the storms. Even if you weren’t previously eligible, you can now apply for the $9.25 monthly discount if you’re receiving aid from FEMA’s Individuals and Households Program.

Satellite Communications for Emergency Messaging

Satellite communications can be a lifeline when terrestrial services are down, making it important to ensure your phone is ready. Both iPhones and Android devices now have the ability to use satellite communications on the latest versions of their respective software.

Below is a step-by-step guide for both iOS and Android devices to activate satellite messaging:

iOS (iPhone 14 or newer)

  1. Update Your Phone (if you haven’t already): Go to Settings > General > Software Update and update to iOS 18 or later.
  2. Enable Satellite Messaging: Once updated, navigate to Settings > Emergency SOS and turn on Satellite Messaging.
  3. Learn How to Use It: Access the demo in Settings > Emergency SOS > Try Demo under Emergency SOS Via Satellite to understand how it works before you need it.
  4. Test Connectivity: Ensure you are in an open area with a clear view of the sky to test satellite functionality.

Android (Pixel 9)

  1. Update Your Phone (if you haven’t already): Go to Settings > System > System Update and make sure you have the latest version installed.
  2. Activate Emergency SOS: Navigate to Settings > Safety & Emergency > Emergency SOS and activate satellite messaging.
  3. Access the Demo: Use the demo option available in Safety & Emergency > Satellite Demo to practice using the feature.
  4. Test Connectivity: Go outside to an open area where your phone can connect to a satellite to confirm functionality.

Free Internet Access from Major ISPs

To assist people in areas affected by Hurricanes Helene and Milton, many ISPs have launched emergency relief measures that provide free or discounted internet access:

Starlink

Starlink has partnered with FEMA to offer 30 days of “free” satellite internet service to current and new customers in affected regions. The company has said they are deploying 500 Starlink kits to areas in need, including parts of Florida, Georgia, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, Virginia, and West Virginia.

Despite this, you should be aware that this option isn’t entirely free. Upon signup, users are still expected to pay for the physical hardware required for Starlink to operate, which currently costs $400.

You can check your eligibility for this relief on the Starlink website, and if the option isn’t available, you can try opening a support ticket.

Spectrum

Spectrum has made 90,000 Wi-Fi hotspots available for free access for those in affected areas. These hotspots are located in public areas across North Carolina, South Carolina, Alabama, Georgia, and Florida. You can find these access points using Spectrum’s Out-of-Home Wi-Fi map.

Over 45,000 of the hotspots remain available in the aftermath of Hurricane Milton in Florida, according to the company.

Xfinity

Xfinity has opened more than 362,000 free Wi-Fi hotspots for noncustomers throughout Georgia, South Carolina, and parts of Eastern Tennessee. You can find a hotspot near you by using Xfinity’s Wi-Fi map.

Verizon

Verizon is providing 24/7 power and Wi-Fi stations in several affected states, including Florida, North Carolina, Georgia, and Tennessee. Additionally, Verizon is waiving domestic call, text, and data usage for postpaid consumer and Verizon Small Business customers in the hardest-hit counties of Florida from October 9 to October 23, 2024. Overages will be automatically credited, with no action needed by customers. You can see the full list of covered zip codes at the company’s resource page.

T-Mobile

T-Mobile is setting up charging stations and free Wi-Fi hotspots in impacted areas of North and South Carolina. These stations are located in Asheville, Black Mountain, Fletcher, and Weaverville in North Carolina, as well as Greenwood, South Carolina. T-Mobile has also extended unlimited calling, texting, and data for customers in the affected counties of Georgia, North Carolina, South Carolina, and Virginia until further notice.

Additionally, T-Mobile is collaborating with Starlink to provide emergency phone connectivity via satellite in the hardest-hit locations, ensuring even more people stay connected during recovery.

Inside of a large library with people studying in the rows
Though it might not be what you think of first, public libraries and other anchor institutions are often a first line of defense when it comes to keeping telecommunications online in the wake of disaster.

Accessing Public Wi-Fi Networks

Public Wi-Fi can be a reliable way to stay connected in the aftermath of a disaster. Here’s how to find internet access in your area:

  • Libraries: Local libraries often offer free public Wi-Fi, even if the building itself is closed.
  • Community Centers and Shelters: Many community centers and emergency shelters provide internet access and may have hotspots available for use.
  • Retail Locations: Businesses such as Starbucks, Target, and Walmart may open their Wi-Fi networks to the public in times of crisis to support affected communities.

Assistance from Nonprofit Organizations

A number of nonprofit organizations offer help with internet access in disaster-affected areas. Here are a few key resources from organizations currently on the ground:

  • ITDRC: The Information Technology Disaster Resource Center deploys resources to help set up public Wi-Fi, hotspots, and charging stations in affected areas.
  • Human-I-T: This organization helps bridge the digital divide by providing low-cost or free devices and internet solutions to those in need, particularly in disaster situations.

Immediate Steps to Take After the Hurricane

  • Search for Free Hotspots: Use your phone or a connected device to find available public Wi-Fi hotspots nearby.
  • Apply for Government Assistance: If eligible, apply for support through the Lifeline program to reduce your internet costs during recovery.
  • Contact Your Internet Provider: Reach out to your ISP to learn about temporary internet relief programs they may offer. Many providers have teams dedicated to supporting customers affected by hurricanes.

Stay Connected and Stay Safe

Having access to the internet is crucial during the recovery phase of a hurricane—whether you need to get in touch with loved ones, receive emergency alerts, or access assistance programs. Thankfully, with the support of government programs, ISPs, and nonprofit organizations, there are many options available to help you stay online during these challenging times.

If you’re struggling to find connectivity, reach out to local relief organizations or community centers—they are often ready to help you find the resources needed to get back online.