COLUMBUS, Ohio – Ohio Governor Mike DeWine has announced the deployment of Multi-Agency Radio Communication System (MARCS) equipment and personnel to Asheville, North Carolina, to assist with recovery efforts following Hurricane Helene.
“Ohio stands ready to support Governor Cooper and the residents of western North Carolina during this challenging time,” Governor DeWine said. “We are providing essential communication equipment for first responders, which is vital for effective disaster response.”
The MARCS team, managed by the Ohio Department of Administrative Services (DAS), will send a Tower on Wheels (TOW), a cache of radios, and a portable generator to the affected area. Two staff members will accompany the equipment as part of the Ohio Telecommunicator Emergency Response Task Force.
The 80-foot TOWs are designed to enhance communication coverage and capacity in emergency situations, becoming operational within an hour of arrival.
“Reliable communication is critical to disaster recovery and saving lives during emergencies,” said DAS Director Kathleen C. Madden. “We are committed to providing the staffing and equipment necessary to support first responders in coordinating their efforts.”
This initiative complements the activation of the Ohio National Guard, which is also assisting North Carolina by transporting supplies, equipment, and personnel, as well as aiding in fatality search and recovery efforts.
The request for assistance from North Carolina falls under the Emergency Management Assistance Compact, a national mutual aid agreement that facilitates support between states during declared emergencies.
