FCC approves SpaceX and T-Mobile to restore mobile service in hurricane-hit North Carolina

The FCC has approved SpaceX and T-Mobile to use Starlink's satellite service to restore mobile connectivity in hurricane-affected areas of North Carolina. This temporary measure addresses communication infrastructure damage from Hurricane Helene. As of September 28, over 74% of cell towers were down, but recovery efforts have reduced that to 17%. SpaceX is providing emergency alerts, while T-Mobile is testing basic SMS capabilities in the region. T-Mobile reports that most of its network is restored, but some areas still face challenges. Although Starlink's full satellite constellation is not operational, both companies aim to support recovery efforts.