Satellite Internet Proves Vital in Mexico’s Disaster Response

Mexico’s hurricane season highlights the critical role of resilient connectivity, which is essential to coordinate rescue operations and humanitarian assistance, says Hughes Network Systems. The experience of Hurricane Otis in 2023 demonstrated the capacity of satellite internet to reestablish vital communication links in affected areas.

Satellite internet operates independently from conventional terrestrial networks. Unlike traditional systems, which are vulnerable to power outages, flooding, or structural damage, satellite connections function through geostationary satellites. This inherently resilient architecture supports critical operations such as payment processing and systems monitoring even during disasters.

“The hurricane season reminds us of the essential need for connectivity that does not rely on terrestrial infrastructure. What we experienced with Otis clearly demonstrated that satellite internet is not only a service for remote areas, but also a backbone of national resilience,” writes Marcos Duarte, General Manager, Hughes Network Systems Mexico, in a press release.

The hurricane and torrential rain season has increased demand for communication solutions that ensure operational continuity during emergencies. In this context, satellite internet has emerged as an indispensable tool to maintain communication when terrestrial infrastructures fail. The autonomous operation of these networks, enabled by high-altitude satellites, provides a critical advantage in adverse environments.

Companies such as Hughes Network Systems have developed satellite terminals that enable the rapid deployment of internet and communication services. These are essential for authorities and humanitarian organizations that require reliable communication channels.

The response to Hurricane Otis in Acapulco, Guerrero, serves as a case study on the effectiveness of resilient communication networks. Following the storm, which disabled the electrical and telecommunications infrastructure, satellite connectivity enabled the establishment of command centers and the coordination of rescue and humanitarian operations.

Following the storm, Hughes Network Systems installed satellite internet at the Red Cross command center in Acapulco Diamante. This allowed for coordination of rescues, resource requests, and management of humanitarian aid. Additional internet access points were deployed in other support centers, shelters, and civil protection bases to facilitate critical communications.

In a country with high exposure to natural hazards such as hurricanes and earthquakes, satellite internet is becoming a fundamental component of the national disaster response strategy, ensuring uninterrupted communication even under the most challenging conditions, says Hughes Network Systems.