Mobile Weather Alert Apps Keep You Safe On The Go

When storms are headed your way, it's important to have options to get the warnings you need to help keep your family safe. With storm season upon us, we took a look at a few mobile options.

Your cell phone carrier might send out an automated text message. The text looks like it's from the National Weather Service, but that's not completely true.

"They're generated by the National Weather Service in most instances, but it's the phone company itself actually pushing it out to their users," said Steve Piltz, with the National Weather Service.

It's called a Wireless Emergency Alert. All major cell phone providers started using the program last year, but you can opt out if you want.

"Having multiple ways to receive weather warnings is good, and these smart phones are just natural ways to do that," Piltz said.

Another option for your phone is the newly released Red Cross tornado app.

"The Red Cross tornado app is really kind of a one-stop shop, and I think that's what makes it so helpful to people," Donita Quesnel, with the Red Cross.

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The app picks up your location, and if you're in the path of a tornado, a siren will sound.

Also, with the touch of a button, you can easily alert friends and family that you're safe after a disaster strikes.

"To be able to let people know that you're okay after a storm, that brings such great peace of mind to everyone who cares about someone who's just gone through a disaster," Quesnel said.

Another useful app is the News On 6 iMapWeather Radio. It will send you a text alert when dangerous storms are heading your way.

"It can pick up your current location, and then you can set up to five additional locations inside the app," said Griffin New Media Director of Operations Richard Cox.

The News On 6 app also shows you radar, current temperatures and weather videos.

"Our primary focus is to keep you covered, no matter where you are, what type of app or device you're using," Cox said.

All of these apps are available for iPhone and Android devices.

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