Two things! A method to inform and a method to be informed.
Most events come with a warning. Primary method to inform is your cellphone. Mass text.
Alternative method could be a CB or GMRS mobile in the vehicles.
Item two. How many sources do you want? Vehicles have AM/FM radios that's one. A portable scanner is another. Truck stops sell 12v power outlet mobile televisions, that's a third, a shortwave radio receiver that's four.
Those are the only two communication requirements. Inform those who need to be informed and then a method of staying informed.
Very good and salient points, PT. The ability to gather information, even if some of it is likely flawed or slanted, is good intelligence gathering. Intel especially in a SHTF situation will be essential. Troop movements, UN/non UN government incursions, even ranchers in close proximity to Montana, North and South Dakota missile fields--unusual activity out there after SHTF could be very important. Being able to communicate news or observations also important.
Very well said @TyMoore I was thinking about the average person. Most don't require a full shack for Commo. Just a way to inform those who need and then a way to stay informed. In essence a beofeng and a shortwave receiver could be a good fit for someone not needing to relay information past five miles. (Not including repeater use)
Get your Baofeng's before the end of September, FCC is getting pissy about its' ability to be programmed for non approved frequencies and won't let them be sold after the 30th.
Those are all good if you want to rely on the Media for what is going on, I would rather talk with a local Ham to find out what truly going on in a certain area.
Baofeng VHF and UHF are line of site five or seven miles without a repeater, we keep two repeaters with Solar power just in case. VHF and UHF are easy to track HF bounces off the Ionosphere much harder to DF.
Unfortunately, right now and for the immediate future, HF is unreliable. Pray for sunspots.