ARES R1D5’s Response to the Winter Snowstorm of Nov 7–9
When the first hints of the snowstorm began to roll into Elbert County, the Amateur Radio Emergency Service (ARES) District R1D5 was already preparing. The storm’s intensity was predicted to leave parts of the county isolated, and the Elbert County Office of Emergency Management (OEM) recognized the need for an organized, reliable response.
On Thursday, November 7, the STANDBY PHASE was initiated at the request of the Elbert County OEM Deputy. A Community Volunteer Management (CVM) message—via email, text, and robo-call—alerted ARES members to prepare for possible deployment. A Readiness Net was promptly conducted, and volunteers filled all standby positions for Elizabeth High School and the Elbert County Agricultural Building, designated as potential shelter sites.
By noon on Friday, November 8, the OEM confirmed the need for activation, and ARES R1D5 transitioned to the ACTIVATION PHASE. Following the weekly Thursday evening ARESDEC Net, a Resource Net was conducted to assign operational periods and prepare for deployment. Volunteers mobilized quickly, utilizing a dedicated Slack channel for coordination. The Slack channel proved invaluable, offering real-time updates, shift schedules, and critical documents such as the ICS-205 and KBUG operational guides.
As the snowstorm bore down on the region, ARES R1D5 volunteers arrived at Elizabeth High School to establish the shelter. Communications were set up using the DTRS system for primary links between the Liaison Officer, the Emergency Coordinator (EC), the shelter, and OEM.
After the first operational period on Friday afternoon, it became clear that the Elizabeth High School shelter was no longer needed. Efforts shifted to the Elbert County Fairgrounds Agricultural Building (AG BLDG), which became the primary shelter site. The high school shelter was closed, and resources were consolidated at the AG BLDG.
Despite the storm’s challenges, ARES volunteers maintained professionalism and flexibility. The Elbert County Emergency Operations Center (EOC) did not require physical activation; instead, Kelly/W0KDE, the county liaison, managed an informal net from home using DMR and analog systems. When Kelly was unavailable, Net Control responsibilities transitioned seamlessly to Shelter 1.
By Saturday morning, November 9, the storm showed signs of lingering, prompting the OEM to request readiness for extended operations past 1800. A CVM message was sent to volunteers, asking them to self-identify via email for the additional operational periods. This approach minimized the need for another Resource Net, conserving resources while ensuring adequate coverage.
Thanks to the dedication and readiness of ARES R1D5 volunteers, the AG BLDG shelter was efficiently staffed throughout its operational period. As conditions improved and residents were able to return to their homes, the shelter began to clear out by early afternoon. At 1400, the OEM officially closed the shelter, signaling the end of active operations.
Throughout the storm response, ARES R1D5 demonstrated its commitment to community service, adaptability, and effective communication. The teamwork and professionalism of its volunteers ensured that the community received the support it needed during the storm.
Acknowledgment
A heartfelt thank-you goes to all ARES R1D5 members who stepped up during the snowstorm. Your dedication and expertise showcased the strength of amateur radio in times of need.
