Google Maps tracks the spread of wildfires in America hour by hour

As wildfires continue to ravage parts of California and Colorado, Google has released new tools to help people stay informed on their progress. Starting today, Google search queries for information on fires won’t just be just news and alerts – they’ll also show maps of the fire limits. The Google Maps app will show the same wildfire limits to people trying to take advantage of the height of summer nearby, and will also provide warnings and “ambient alerts” to those who start approaching areas. affected.

But here’s the most important part: This crucial information on the fire map is updated hourly. To make sure people get the most accurate view possible, Google uses analysis tools in its Google Earth Engine to monitor images provided by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s four GOES satellites. These satellites cannot directly “see” the flames, but they can see the stupendous plumes of smoke that these flames produce, as well as the significant thermal hot spots that signify areas of intense fire activity.