Amazon has been actively involved in disaster relief efforts since 2017, delivering over 25 million relief items to communities affected by natural disasters. The company utilizes its extensive network of warehouses, disaster relief hubs, and transportation fleet to provide aid during crises such as hurricanes, wildfires, and floods.
The company emphasizes the safety of its teams by employing meteorologists and weather monitors who track severe weather events. They maintain a 24/7 operation dedicated to providing alerts when such events are expected.
Amazon pre-positions critical supplies in 15 disaster relief hubs worldwide. These hubs are strategically located near major cities and transportation networks to ensure quick delivery of essential items within 72 hours or less after a request from a relief partner. In the U.S., one such hub is located near Atlanta, Georgia, storing over 1.4 million emergency supplies for rapid distribution across hurricane-prone areas on the Gulf Coast and Eastern seaboard. Additionally, a wildfire relief hub in Southern California is stocked with specialized equipment like axes and respirators.
Collaboration with local community leaders and organizations is a key aspect of Amazon's approach. During Hurricane Milton, they worked with groups like the American Red Cross and Feeding Tampa Bay to distribute supplies efficiently. Following Hurricane Helene's impact on North Carolina, Amazon delivered baby formula within 15 hours of an urgent request from the North Carolina Department of Public Safety.
In response to fires such as Palisades and Eaton, Amazon developed mobile drone detection capabilities to assist agencies with situational awareness. They also partnered with the Information Technology Disaster Resource Center to set up temporary communications infrastructure for internet and phone connectivity in affected areas.
Amazon continues to expand its programs by using its logistics network to donate relief items and deploying technology to support emergency responders in assessing changing conditions.
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