Google Maps gets a new layer to show you what’s on fire right now

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There has been no shortage of hazardous weather events around the world this year, and staying up to date with information about your surroundings is the best way to stay safe. Google hosted its annual Search On event yesterday, and among other improvements to the company’s core product, Maps is getting a new way to stay safe during wildfire season.

Building on the boundaries of last year’s fires, Google is adding a new layer to Maps designed to include data on all ongoing fires in the region. Once the feature is enabled, you can tap an active light to view all available information, including local resources such as emergency websites and phone numbers, as well as details on when and how. you must leave the area. This change is a huge improvement over the Limits feature, which only gave context to one fire at a time, rather than multiple fires that could burn in the same area.

In addition to information on evacuations and emergencies, Google will update the list of each fire with containment and acres burned, time stamping each update to keep everything up to date. Of course, you will need to be connected to the internet to view the updated data using this layer.

This addition is the latest in Google’s renewed focus on forest fire safety. Last month, the company announced AQI infographics for the Nest Hub to display air quality stats before you leave the house.

With user safety being so important, Google is wasting no time in bringing this layer to users. It’s coming to Android globally this week, with iOS and desktop launches slated for October.

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About the Author

Will sattelberg
(562 articles published)

Will has been an Android enthusiast since getting his first smartphone in 2011. He loves watching movies, has an endless backlog of video games, and produces a comedy podcast in his spare time. He lives in Buffalo, NY and is ready to give you chicken wing recommendations anytime. You just have to ask.