Above the storms: How satellite tech can be a lifesaver during natural disasters

When disaster strikes, communication can mean the difference between life and death. The problem is that systems relying on cables and cell towers are vulnerable to high winds, wildfires, and flash flooding, and can be taken out in the early stages of a disaster. 

However, communication satellites orbiting 485 miles above the Earth are immune to such disasters, and they can be a valuable lifeline in times of disaster, such as the heartbreaking devastation inflicted by Hurricane Helene in recent days.

Also: I've weathered a lot of hurricanes - these are my must-have storm tracking tools

Just being able to let friends and family know that you are alive can make a huge difference, give peace of mind, and help emergency services coordinate their efforts where they are needed the most.  

However, the current state of satellite messaging is confusing and expensive.

Satellite communicators are ideal - sortof

I use a number of satellite communicators, including the Garmin inReach Messenger and the Spot X. Both allow two-way text messaging, live tracking, and emergency SOS functionality. 

They're super handy pieces of kit that I use regularly when going into the wilds on adventures, but I use the live position tracking and text messaging features more than I do emergency messaging, which is more of a "just in case" insurance measure.

The downside is that they are both expensive and need cash regularly thrown at them in the form of activation fees, monthly fees, and yearly charges, which all pile up, especially if you're not using the devices.

Also: The best satellite phones you can buy: Expert tested

Both plans used to allow you to suspend your subscription, but Garmin has changed its subscription model so this isn't possible without incurring more activation fees. I suspect the other players will follow suit soon.

Another problem is that most people do not keep these devices on their person. They'll likely be in a rucksack, drawer, or cupboard. When disaster strikes, you're likely to be scrabbling to find it, only to find that it needs charging.

Also: Storm coming? Take these steps to prep your tech before weather emergencies strike

It's also not a tool for the masses.

iPhone to the rescue

Then there's my iPhone.

iPhone 14 and later handsets have the ability to use satellite messaging to text emergency services, request roadside assistance, message friends and family, and share your location when the mobile networks are down and there's no Wi-Fi coverage.

Whether you have fallen over or in a car crash, you could find yourself making use of satellite messaging to get yourself out of trouble.

Also: This tiny satellite communicator is packed full of features and peace of mind

This is yet another handy tool for when disaster strikes, and in many ways much more practical than a separate messenger. Most people are glued to their iPhones, and right now the satellite features are included for free for two years with the activation of an iPhone 14 or later.

But what about Android?

As far as Android users are concerned, options are more limited.

The Google Pixel 9 is the first Android phone to get satellite SOS messaging, and there are options such as the Cat S75 (but these again incur continual charges). I expect things to get better over the coming months and years, but right now things are somewhat barren on the Android front.

In the high-stakes moments of an emergency, where every second counts and communication can spell the difference between life and death, the arrival of satellite messaging on smartphones is a game-changer. For those daring adventurers and seasoned professionals braving the untamed wilderness, standalone satellite devices offer unmatched convenience and versatility.

Also: Garmin's newest satellite communicator lets you share photos and voice notes, too

However, for the vast majority, the smartphone reigns supreme as the ultimate communication powerhouse -- already woven seamlessly into the fabric of our daily lives. While it may not possess the power to halt natural disasters in its tracks, it stands ready to be an indispensable ally in the aftermath, connecting us when it matters most.