Since the end of July, it has been possible to visualize in real time the extent of forest fires currently raging around the world. We tested this new feature.
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The American digital giant Google has developed a new feature in 15 countries, including France, since July 30. This new system makes it possible to map the forest fires that are underway around the world. For example, those that have ravaged the region northeast of Athens, Greece, since Sunday, August 11.
This new feature takes the form of a layer on Google Maps. Until now, it was possible to view reliefs, satellite view or even traffic in real time on the application. It is now possible to see if you are near a fire.
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To use it, nothing could be simpler. On the Google Maps application or website, simply click on the “Layers” icon and then choose “Forest fires”. This is where points with a flame pictogram appear. By clicking on them, you can see the extent of the fire and its estimated surface area. Google uses satellite data to calculate it.
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Clicking on the fire then brings up evacuation order details, as well as links to local authority websites and emergency numbers. Information can also be accessed on Google Search by searching for the forest fire.
For example, at the time of writing, more than 1,000 square kilometers were burning in a wildfire in northern Canada. Some points also indicate suspected fires, when smoke has been spotted. This tool is therefore in addition to the “crisis alerts” that Google has developed. They are sent to users during a flood, earthquake or hurricane alert.
