FCC Activates Reporting System for Tropical Storm Ernesto

The FCC initiated the disaster information reporting system (DIRS) for the U.S. Virgin Islands and Puerto Rico as Tropical Storm Ernesto makes landfall, a public notice said Tuesday. Additionally, it activated the mandatory disaster response initiative (MDRI) for facilities-based mobile wireless providers in the affected area, which requires companies to allow reasonable roaming and cooperate in service restoration during disasters. The FCC also issued public notices on priority communications services and emergency communications procedures for licensees that need special temporary authority. The Public Safety Bureau issued a reminder for entities clearing debris and repairing utilities to avoid damaging communications infrastructure.