The new App prepares you for a tornado.
Although most Southern Californians aren’t aware of tornadoes they are more common than we think. There have been more than 300 recorded tornadoes in California. The Red Cross has released a free Tornado App to help alert users in case one occurs.
This App, available in English or Spanish, provides severe weather alerts, which will sound even if the App is closed. The Tornado App allows users to become more prepared for what to do during a disaster.
The App’s features include:
- Location-based NOAA tornado, severe thunderstorm and flood watch and warning alerts;
- Enhanced weather maps and information provided by Weather Underground, a digital brand of The Weather Company;
- One-touch “I’m safe” messaging that allows users to broadcast reassurance to family and friends via social media outlets that they are out of harm’s way;
- Simple steps and checklists people can use to create an emergency plan and share it with household members;
- Preloaded content that gives users instant access to critical action steps, even without mobile connectivity;
- Toolkit with flashlight, strobe light and audible alarm;
- Locations of open Red Cross shelters; and
- Badges users can earn through interactive quizzes and share on social networks.
The Red Cross wants users to be prepared for disasters and emergencies at home or while traveling. The organization also provides First Aid, Earthquake, Hurricane, and Wildfire Apps. The Red Cross hopes to help users become prepared for whatever disaster may come their way.
The Tornado App along with other Red Cross Apps can be found free of charge, in the Apple Store or Android Market.
