Operators dispatched with Damage Assessment Teams perform a similar function between the Teams and Net Control. If you read accounts of amateur radio operator assistance in major disasters you find that regular telephone service is often disabled. Working cell phone networks are overloaded. In the case of shelter centers, the Shelter Center Manager may not have access to a telephone even if there is one working at the site. Official government communications networks are overloaded.
Amateur radio fills the gap.
Fortunately it was not nearly as disastrous as Twister 97. No shelters were required. I went out with one damage assessment team but amateur radio assistance was not required. Red Cross personnel were able to use their own communications network. While the damage was significant for those who were directly affected it was nothing like that described in the scenario for Twister 97.