OK, me again. My intent in passing along the following information isn't to demean the use of CW, which I still wholeheartedly believe can be a life-saving alternative when communications are compromised.
While you're on the subject of QST columns, check out the article in QST, September 2017 titled: "Supporting the Department of Defense following a Very Bad Day".
It describes drills "...that exercise communications interoperability across a wide variety of entities, including the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA); the Department of Homeland Security SHAred RESources (SHARES) HF program; active duty, reserve, and National Guard units; state, county, and local emergency management officials and first responders; and civilian partners, including MARS and local Amateur Radio operators..."
So HERE'S the best part, and you can look it up for yourself. Under "Lessons Learned" (pg. 70), their conclusions included the following:
Referring to voice communications "There are no special message formats or digital protocols required; using a voice channel was the most effective way to exchange the needed information from the county level..."
"...Voice communication is the most effective method to pass information during a crisis because all Amateur Radio operators can operate voice. Therefore, it is quick and easy, and there is less room for miscommunication"
So it doesn't matter to me that FT8 is becoming more popular and a QRp manufacturer may be coming out with a digital-only transceiver. I'll put my faith in the Department of Defense when it comes to which mode is best during a real emergency.
Carl - W5SU
Dallas TX