Key Takeaways:
- A recent Verizon outage affected over 1.5 million customers, highlighting the fragility of internet and cell access in the US.
- Experts warn that such outages can be dangerous and will continue to occur, emphasizing the need to treat them as a routine risk rather than a rare event.
- Tech outages can have significant impacts on safety, healthcare systems, and finances, and can be caused by natural disasters, cybersecurity attacks, or software glitches.
- Individuals and companies can prepare for outages by having cash, paper copies of important documents, landlines, radios, and other essential supplies on hand.
- Companies should consider having backup internet traffic-routing options in place to minimize the impact of outages on their operations.
Introduction to the Issue
The recent Verizon outage on January 14, 2026, which affected over 1.5 million customers, serves as a stark reminder of the fragility of internet and cell access in the United States. The outage, which lasted for nearly 10 hours, left users without access to calling, texting, or network internet services, and had a range of impacts on various aspects of life, including sports events, emergency services, and daily transactions. Experts warn that such outages can be dangerous and will continue to occur, emphasizing the need to treat them as a routine risk rather than a rare event.
The Causes and Consequences of Outages
The exact cause of the Verizon outage is still unknown, but experts suggest that outages can stem from natural disasters, major cybersecurity attacks, or something as simple as a small glitch in software code that spirals out of control. The consequences of such outages can be severe, with impacts on safety, healthcare systems, and finances. For example, during the outage, local governments warned that Verizon customers may not be able to use their cell service to call 911, and 911 operators may not be able to call back if there was a disconnection. Additionally, tech outages can cause delays in patient care, which can lead to worse health outcomes, as hospitals rely heavily on network connections for electronic health records, radiology systems, and scheduling systems.
The Impact on Healthcare and Daily Life
The impact of tech outages on healthcare and daily life can be significant. In areas with hospitals that have been hit by cyberattacks and lost certain tech functions, research has shown that patients end up doing worse. Furthermore, outages can also impact daily functions that can quickly become catastrophic if they last for very long, such as point-of-sale systems in grocery stores and banking apps. Without access to these systems, people may be unable to process transactions or pay bills, leading to significant disruptions in daily life. Experts also warn that outages can be caused by natural disasters, such as wildfires, which can knock out cell signals and leave people confused about what to do.
Preparing for Outages
Given the potential risks and consequences of outages, it is essential for individuals and companies to prepare for such events. Experts recommend having cash, paper copies of important documents, landlines, radios, and other essential supplies on hand. Additionally, companies should consider having backup internet traffic-routing options in place to minimize the impact of outages on their operations. By taking these precautions, individuals and companies can reduce their reliance on internet and cell connections and be better equipped to respond to outages when they occur. It is also crucial for individuals to be aware of their medications, medical conditions, and other essential information in case they find themselves in a hospital during an outage.
The Importance of Backup Systems
The importance of having backup systems in place cannot be overstated. During the Cloudflare outage in November 2025, websites that went down most likely didn’t have backup internet traffic-routing options already in place. Having such backups can save companies from potential losses if an outage persists, disrupting business or causing mistrust from customers. Furthermore, companies should not rely on one service provider for their most critical functions, as this can increase their vulnerability to outages. By diversifying their service providers and having backup systems in place, companies can reduce their risk and ensure business continuity in the event of an outage.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the recent Verizon outage highlights the fragility of internet and cell access in the US and the need to treat outages as a routine risk rather than a rare event. The consequences of outages can be severe, with impacts on safety, healthcare systems, and finances. By preparing for outages and having backup systems in place, individuals and companies can reduce their reliance on internet and cell connections and be better equipped to respond to outages when they occur. As experts warn, it is not a matter of if, but when, an outage like the Verizon disruption will strike again, and being prepared is essential to minimizing the impact of such events.