WESLACO – HAM radio operators pay attention to weather in the Gulf and across the world.

They're ready to jump in and back up communication in case traditional channels overload or fail.

CHANNEL 5 NEWS spoke to RGV Amateur Radio Club’s Rene Lopez.

He explains HAM radio provides a communication lifeline during a state of emergency.

"We have the equipment to reach far and away; I reach as far away as Slovakia," he says.

They have their own emergency communication plan to provide services in case of disaster. 

For more information watch the video above.