Verizon Communications Inc. (NYSE: VZ) announced new disaster response technologies and expanded emergency infrastructure ahead of the 2026 hurricane season beginning June 1.

The telecommunications company introduced digital twin technology that uses drone-captured 3D imagery and artificial intelligence to identify network damage locations after storms. The system compares pre-storm and post-storm imagery to pinpoint damaged antennas, cables and equipment, allowing engineers to prepare specific equipment and prioritize repairs without waiting for floodwaters to recede or debris clearance.

Verizon expanded its satellite fleet to 2,600 total assets, including a new "Multi-Orbit Off-road Vehicle" capable of switching between geosynchronous and low-earth orbit satellites. The high-clearance vehicle is designed for off-road disaster zone deployment and can create localized 5G hotspots for first responders.

The company is testing permanent satellite backhaul as backup connectivity at storm-prone cell sites across the Southeast. These sites combine backup battery power, generator power and satellite connectivity to maintain cellular traffic when both commercial power and fiber lines fail.

Verizon maintains nearly 3,000 mobile assets for deployment to affected areas, including mobile cell sites, emergency command centers and drone mission capabilities. The equipment includes portable generators and refueling programs, with some assets stored 60 feet underground for protection.

The company established specialist response teams including the Frontline Crisis Response Team, Major Event Response Incident Team with gas-detecting drones, and Dedicated Impact Response Team. Verizon also launched the V Team Disaster Response Corps, partnering with the American Red Cross to train employee volunteers for disaster shelter deployment.

"In an emergency, every second counts," said Joe Russo, Executive Vice President of Global Networks and Technology at Verizon, according to the company's statement.

The information is based on a Verizon press release statement.