American Red Cross Nebraska/Iowa Region 

The Nebraska-Iowa Region is working to develop capabilities for Red Cross amateur radio operators and other interested amateur radio organizations to support disasters that may occur in the region. As recent disaster like the in Maui wildfire show, an ability to communicate in the absence of internet and cell phones could be critical in the early stages of a disaster response.

For a localized event, voice communications might be adequate, but for a larger event the ability to deliver formatted email using Winlink Global Radio Email would be extremely valuable. Amateur radio operators can send and receive Winlink messages using HF or VHF radio depending on their location, license and equipment. 

An exercise using WinLink messaging was conducted Saturday March 23, 2024 with early checkins allowed starting an noon Central on March 22.  A summary of the results is available at Exercise Summary  and a map of participants is at Exercise Participant Map.

Questions may be directed to marty.malley@redcross.org