How climate models intended for cell towers are helping communities plan for floods, drought, and wildfires
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Several years ago, AT&T embarked on a forward-looking study of the changing climate-related hazards facing our network footprint. Working with researchers at the U.S. Department of Energy’s Argonne National Laboratory, models were built for projecting locations at risk of flooding, drought, and wildfires 30 years into the future. These maps now help identify areas to safely place cell towers and harden existing infrastructure for potential hazards.
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Today, this portal gives communities nationwide access to interactive maps with more than 100 climate overlays, providing at least 30-year climate projections down to the ZIP code for communities across the U.S.
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This means civic leaders can leverage this to help reduce the chance of putting schools, senior centers, new housing, and other developments in future flood and wildfire zones. First responders can develop climate-informed evacuation routes and better plan for the staffing and resources required to mobilize in the event of a natural disaster. Urban planners and engineers can spot the areas that may be more vulnerable in the future and start making zoning and infrastructure improvements now. The state of Idaho recently used this tool to build a new hazard mitigation plan that better protects its citizens and could help qualify for certain non-disaster FEMA grants.
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Understanding these dynamics can provide a starting point for connections with public and private partners. If every link in our community chains is more resilient, we’ll be better able to mitigate the effects of today’s severe weather events as we also work together to turn the tide on future impacts.
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