An aerial view taken from an MH-65 Dolphin helicopter shows severe flooding in a residential area of Baton Rouge, Louisiana on Aug. 15, 2016. Photo: Coast Guard/Petty Officer 1st Class Melissa Leake.

[Via Satellite 08-23-2016] Globalstar has deployed satellite communications solutions in Louisiana regions most affected by recent extreme flooding in conjunction with first responder communications specialist and partner Disaster Tech Lab. Coordinating with local Globalstar team members, Disaster Tech Lab has set up base operations in Prairieville, Louisiana and will deliver communication support to the Southeast part of the state by troubleshooting and fixing network issues as well as providing the use of satellite phones and satellite hot-spot units where traditional forms of communication have failed.

Disaster Tech Lab is meeting with incident commanders and representatives of the affected communities, the Department of Homeland Security, first responder organizations and law enforcement to assess needs for internet access and communication services. Globalstar Spot tracking devices will monitor the first responders as they carry out relief efforts. Disaster Tech Lab is actively recruiting local volunteers with IT and satellite communications skills to support the effort.