Among so many features Google Maps has, one of the most interesting is the one that allows you to apply different layers of information to the maps. In this way, we can take advantage of detailed data on traffic, public transport, or -even- the total number of COVID-19 cases in a given place. And the platform is now being expanded with the inclusion of a tool to monitor forest fires .
This new option already existed in Google Maps, but only for the United States. From now on, users around the world will be able to take advantage of it, as announced by Google. The inclusion of this new layer is intended for people “to make quick and informed decisions at critical moments” .
By activating this tool, Google Maps shows users which forest fires are active in their region, if any, of course. By touching on the sector where the presence of the fire is marked, you can access links to emergency websites, news, and other useful information such as helplines, and the evacuation plans provided by local governments.
According to Google, additional data on wildfires will also be available. Thus, in addition to the location, it will be possible to know how many hectares are affected and what is the containment plan for firefighters and civil protection personnel.
Forest fire monitoring comes to Google Maps
Like many of the features related to Google Maps, information about wildfires is likely to be more complete in some places than others. Especially when this specific layer is made available.
In fact, Google has mentioned that globally it will show the most important fires; that is, those that require the evacuation of citizens . The detail on smaller bulbs will remain exclusive to the United States, at least for now. The Mountain View firm expects to offer options with a similar level of detail in other countries soon. They will start with Australia, although not much is known about it yet.
The layer for monitoring forest fires in Google Maps will be available on Android from this week . IOS and desktop versions will receive this option “coming soon”.
