In Preparation for Hurricane Irma, Floridians Are Downloading These Two Apps
A note is posted to a gas pump after the station ran out of gas ahead of Hurricane Irma in Daytona Beach, Fla., Friday, Sept. 8, 2017. David Goldman/AP
The apps let users turn their smartphones into walkie-talkies and track the best places to find fuel
As Hurricane Irma moves toward Florida, residents of the state are preparing as much as possible. Some are even downloading specific apps.
The app GasBuddy has become incredibly popular in the run up to the storm and was publicly recommended by Florida governor Rick Scott. The app helps users track down gas station locations and prices, and with the release of its latest update, lets users see which gas stations still have fuel.
Another app, Zello, lets people use their phones as walkie-talkies. It has been one of the most downloaded apps since Hurricane Harvey hit Texas and according to Mashable, has been helpful during to rescue groups like Cajun Navy.
In addition to downloading these apps, people facing inclement weather should prep their smartphone in a few other ways. Prior to a natural disaster, smartphone users should set up official emergency contacts on their phone, which will make it easier to quickly call for help in an emergency.
Once a storm does hit, there are also proven ways that users can make their smartphone battery last for as long as possible.