Google Streamlining Information In Event Of Quake With Magnitude Of 2.5 Or Greater
LOS ANGELES (CBSLA.com) — When an earthquake hits, it's duck, cover and hold, but for many, the next step is usually "search."
That's why Google is now streamlining a way to find the quake magnitude and epicenter information almost immediately.
"When people are grappling for information, they may be experiencing an earthquake, we really want them to have that information on hand," said Susan Cadrecha of the Google search team. "Having it appear right at the top of Google is great place so they get it right before they need to dig in to do any deeper research."
To access the information, the Google search team says all you have to do is look up "earthquake near me" or "earthquake" followed by your city.
"That information will include everything from a visual map, to giving them guidance on how to deal with aftershocks, or any effects of that," said Cadrecha.
The service links to U.S. Geological Survey computers, which are constantly getting data on quakes.
Your computer's location sensor will help bring up just the quakes near you.
"The information is pushed to our computers within seconds," said Brad Aagaard of the USGS. "It's sort of the firsthand information you get directly from the government sources is good because it dispels other information that may not be accurate that's out there on social media."
The new service will only report on quakes that register at a magnitude of 2.5 or greater.
