In the aftermath of a disaster, how long will it be before phone service returns to normal?
The timing will depend on the magnitude, location and nature of the disaster, and its impact on the community. For example, when earthquakes were felt in the BC Lower Mainland and Vancouver Island areas in May 1996 and February 2001, congestion was a problem, as everyone went for the phone at the same time in the first hour after the earthquakes. Most calls were easily completed after this short disruption.
