Wednesday, December 21, 2011

Public Release of Emergency Response Imagery Mobile Website

NGS has released a new mobile Web application (viewable only from iOS or Android mobile devices, or with the latest version of Google Chrome on your desktop PC) that makes it possible for emergency responders to access emergency response imagery in the field. The application uses imagery acquired by NOAA aircraft following major storms, including Hurricane Irene and the Joplin, Missouri, tornado. The imagery has several important uses, including determining the extent of damage inflicted by the storm and comparing the storm's forecast models to actual damage on the ground. The mobile application will help emergency responders on the ground determine priorities for areas in greatest need for assistance. (The prototype Web app was released earlier this year; see NGS September 1, 2011 news story.) For more information, contact Jason Woolard.