As Tropical Storm Helene approaches Florida, the Orlando Utilities Commission (OUC) is taking proactive measures to mitigate potential storm damage, citing learnings from the challenges faced during Hurricane Ian in 2022. According to a report by WFTV, OUC has trained a team of drone pilots to assess storm-inflicted damage more efficiently; obstacles such as downed trees or flooded roadways, which previously hindered rapid response, will no longer delay assessments and repairs.
Research Engineer Maguire Mulligan highlighted the profound impact drones could have on the restoration process, stating, "The amount of recovery that was delayed by those access challenges can easily be overcome by using these drones. " During a WFTV interview, OUC's Emerging Technologies Department now boasts four certified drone pilots who can quickly provide crews with vital situational intelligence, facilitating swifter restitution of services in storm-hit areas.
Going beyond merely identifying barriers, these aerial devices deliver critical data on specific issues like broken fuses or downed transformers. As described by Mulligan, this ability to "stage our resources ahead of time" could drastically reduce the time residents are left without power, attesting to the sentiment that "restoring power is saving lives," which was Mulligan's assertion in his communications, as detailed by WFTV.
Pilots received extensive training in drone operation, practicing navigation around obstacles to simulate real-world conditions. As noted by Mulligan, this training is crucial for efficient drone use during post-storm assessments. OUC’s drone program also emphasizes environmental care, training pilots to maintain a safe distance from wildlife and natural habitats.
According to ClickOrlando, alongside the preparation for the upcoming storm, the drone program represents a leap forward in disaster response for OUC. Pre-emptive measures and technological innovation appear to be at the forefront of OUC's strategy to keep Florida's lights on during storm season.
