Down under, it’s fairly well known that a mammoth cyclone in the form of Tropical Cyclone Yasi is heading for far north Queensland (FNQ). The international coverage on this natural event has been phenomenal which has been great in creating awareness of this impending disaster but what is more important is keeping those affected informed. Information is absolutely critical in a situation such as this one as it could mean the difference between life and death..
Google has made a step in the right direction by updating its Australian Disaster Map 2011 with wind and flood information whilst also offering an informative page on Cyclone Yasi and the Australian floods on its Crisis Response site.
As always, the Bureau of Meteorology (BOM) is a wealth of information with a forecast track map showing the anticipated trajectory of the cyclone as well as detailed information regarding impacts to specific regions. The ABC has once again lifted its geoblock on its online services to allow those outside of Australia to view the ongoing coverage from outside the country.
Twitter is also a popular source of information with one brave guy, Carl Butcher bunkering down and operating the @cycloneupdate account from Freshwater and will be providing updates and photos whilst he has electricity (and he;s prepared with a backup generator) and telecommunications access. He’s certainly a brave soul for staying behind so I hope he keeps safe.
At the end of the day, even with all of the technology at our disposal all we can do is watch as the cyclone approaches as we are powerless to stop it.
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