This network will utilize a linked VHF repeater system, which provides optimal coverage for all of the North Alabama counties and links those counties to the Huntsville NWS office. The linked repeater system is designed to allow stations to use low powered handheld and mobile radios, thereby eliminating the risk of operating on an external antenna during thunderstorms. With the linked repeater system, it is possible to set up direct communications between persons located virtually anywhere across North Alabama/Southern Middle Tennessee and that traffic can be monitored by the National Weather Service in Huntsville.