How is a call handled differently than data usage?

Question

During a hurricane in the fall, my daughter was unable to make calls with her cell phone, but she was able to reach people by texting.  She's on our plan, and has an Android.  I just got an Android.

I'd like to know how she was able to send and receive text messages, when she couldn't send or receive phone calls, and if texting, email, and internet access are likely to be more available than calling during hurricanes or other serious weather conditions.  My husband and I are looking at communications options, evaluating the cost of our options against the likelihood of being able to call for help if we need it or reassuring loved ones we're all right during hurricanes, ice storms, etc.

Also, am I right in assuming that if we can't make a phone call, 911 service would also be down?

budone · Accepted Answer

Texting is handled through a small data connection via the phone line. I suspect the towers were overloaded with calls, that is why a call could not be made, but a text could occur. Towers can handle thousands of texts as they are just short 2-5k size bursts of info.

Calls tie up a connection on a tower and if loaded, you can not call out or have someone call you.

You are correct, if the tower is overloaded or down you can not make a 911 call from that specific location. But a 1/2 mile or more down the road, you may hit another tower and it may work