WWL Radio and the Federal Emergency Management Agency partnered to build a broadcast facility that can withstand everything from a major hurricane to the aftermath of a major terror attack.
FEMA says the bunker is designed to allow WWL to stay on the air "in the event of hurricanes, Electromagnetic Pulse, biological, radiological, chemical attacks, and other hazards."
The goal is make sure WWL can continue providing credible, trustworthy information under any circumstances. It is part of the federal Integrated Public Alert and Warning System to ensure “All Hazards” continuity of broadcast operations.
"We’ve strengthened WWL’s ability to communicate critical safety information to the public when they need it,” FEMA Deputy Administrator Erik Hooks said. “When other communication methods are degraded during an emergency, a battery-powered or car radio can still receive a signal."
The bunker can sustain two broadcasters for up to 60 days in isolation if it ever became necessary after a major disaster or attack.
"WWL has served the people of New Orleans in critical moments for over 100 years, and this new facility speaks volumes to the significance of our station throughout the region,” said Kevin Cassidy, Senior Vice President, Audacy New Orleans. “This facility provides yet another lifeline for the community, and we’re proud to have teamed up with FEMA to ensure our community is informed in the event of a disaster.”
This facility and others like it across the country will help ensure local, state and federal officials can send critical information to the public no matter what happens.
The White House can also send broadcasts to the bunkers in times of emergency "helping ensure that the President can alert and warn the public under all conditions."WWL is designated as a Primary Entry Point station, the only one in Louisiana, for FEMA’s National Public Warning System.FEMA says, "These free-standing emergency studios, located at the radio transmitter sites, are specially designed and hardened to withstand various natural disasters and acts of terrorism."
For more information about IPAWS or the PEP modernization effort, go to FEMA’s website at https://www.fema.gov/emergency-managers/practitioners/integrated-public-alert-warning-system/broadcasters-wireless.