Disasters are no stranger to Marion County, Illinois, and its residents this year. This resilient rural community has faced a vicious tornado season. Historically, Illinois could expect just 50 tornadoes a year. In 2026, the state broke its own record for most tornadoes in a year, reaching 178 documented tornadoes by July.
As the county manages an unprecedented number of severe storms, Andrew Strong, Director of Marion County’s Emergency Management Agency (EMA) appreciates having FirstNet to ensure the agency’s communications remain intact, even amid destruction. “Out of 100-something tornadoes in Illinois this past year, we have never lost FirstNet coverage,” he said. That’s important, because when tornadoes strike, cell phone service is usually one of the first things to get dismantled.
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