Google is enhancing the SOS alerts in Search and Maps with improved visual information and a new navigation system.
SOS alerts are provided during crises, such as natural disasters.
People will now access more reliable information about the current state and progression of disasters.
### Hurricanes, Earthquakes, and Floods
Currently, SOS alerts include:
– A summary of the ongoing situation
– Relevant news stories
– Emergency phone numbers and websites
– Twitter updates from local authorities
– Tips to help people find safety
Soon, detailed visualizations for hurricanes, earthquakes, and floods will also be available.
Days before a hurricane, people in the affected area will see a crisis notification card on Google Maps, including information about the storm’s trajectory.
After an earthquake, Google will display the earthquake’s shakemap, showing its epicenter, magnitude, and intensity in surrounding areas.
### Crisis Navigation Warnings on Google Maps
Google Maps users will receive prominent alerts if their route is affected by crisis activity. When possible, Google Maps will direct users away from the disrupted area.
Crisis navigation is expected to arrive on Google Maps later this summer. Hurricane forecasts and earthquake shakemaps will start rolling out in the coming weeks on Android, iOS, desktop, and mobile web.
