In recent months, we’ve seen the devastating effects that flooding can have on many parts of the country. During these times, preparation is key to ensuring people and their livelihoods are protected. This is why we’re introducing flood alerts to the range of information that’s available through Google Public Alerts in India.
Using data provided by the Central Water Commission (CWC), users can now find flood alerts with river level information for more than 170 areas in which the CWC has active observation stations. These alerts are available on Google web search, Google Now cards in the Google app, Google Maps, and on the Public Alerts homepage, both on your computer and your phone.
Clicking on the alert will show you information with details about the hazard, including a map and expected timeline, as well as tips on how to stay safe.
We’re constantly working to improve our Google Crisis Response tools to make critical information more accessible around natural disasters. Through Public Alerts we show relevant official weather, public safety and earthquake alerts to give people the information they need to make informed decisions in times of crisis. For example, cyclone alerts which we introduced in 2015 show information about the cyclone’s projected area of impact, estimated time of arrival, and advice on what to do to stay safe.
We’re thankful to the Central Water Commission for making their flood alerts available as well as the India Meteorological Department for their cyclone alerts. By making critical and life-saving information more widely available to people around India, we want to help more people prepare for natural disasters, and hopefully protect more lives together.
Posted by Payal Patel, Product Manager and Kiran Bapna, Head, New Business Development, Google India