Hawaii's HAM radio operators work through tsunami

The Pacific Tsunami Warning Center says all coastal areas in Hawaii are vulnerable and urging people to stay away from beaches. Phone and cell lines are clogged, and HAM radio operators throughout the state are stepping in using nearly century-old technology to ensure emergency communications get through, according to Diane Bryant, and HAM radio operator on Maui, who suggests that what’s newer isn’t always better.

Bryant elaborates, “Many phone calls can not be returned, sorry, lines are sporatic at best due to high traffic and messages are garbled.

As many of you know I am an emergency HAM radio operator and I will be very busy today with the Emergency Operating Centers (EOCs).

I heard no siren this morning, either slept through it at 6 am or it is not audible at my location. I have been asked by the Oahu EOC to see if I can hear the 10 am siren. It’s 10:10 and I heard nothing. Not good.

My landlord Lyn owns Kihei Rent a Car and is staying on low ground till the last minute renting cars to people who need to get out of Kihei.”