Information is often at a premium during a natural disaster, so making sure your smartphone is properly configured for Hurricane Sandy is essential. With this severe of a storm caching data to your device via mobile apps is a good safety precaution.
A substantial amount of cancellations and service closures have already been announced for the Level 1 hurricane. The following apps are among the many which have up-to-date information about Sandy, or would serve as a good tool in other severe weather conditions. A link is included to the App Store or Google Play based on the platform for which it is available.
Hurricane by American Red Cross: This app includes safety information, alerts, maps, and other key advice saved to your smartphone if mobile networks tank. It also includes shelter information and other methods for getting in touch with the Red Cross during the hurricane. It has a customizable “I’m safe” alert to broadcast to friends and family through Facebook or Twitter. (App Store) (Google Play)
The Weather Channel: Always at the forefront of reporting weather, this app includes a special section for tracking Sandy. It has a live-stream of The Weather Channel’s television coverage, which especially formats well for the iPad. It also links to the full Weather Channel site for additional resources (which of course includes an ad for getting rid of belly fat). (App Store) (Google Play)
Storm Shield: Designed specifically to serve as a resource for those in the path of storms, Storm Shield has several methods for customizing and receiving alerts. It pinpoints much of the critical information to your location, which can be very essential when in or near a severe situation such as Hurricane Sandy. (App Store) (Google Play)
Weather HD: This one stands out for its graphics (which was eventually imitated by The Weather Channel). It does, however, also include a good array of useful information for hurricane watchers, such as its maps. You can also purchase weather services from additional providers to compare the forecasts. (App Store) (Google Play)
Hurricane Sandy Crisis Map: An exception to the list of apps above, but a worthy resource for anyone getting information on the web. This specially designed Google map has hurricane forecasts, evacuation zones, alerts, and other key information for anyone in the storm’s path. (link)
