Google provides crisis support on 'Pablo' onslaught

MANILA, Philippines -- In extending a helping hand to Filipinos in disaster-prone areas during the onslaught of typhoon Pablo (international name: Bopha), Internet search company Google has set up a crisis map through Google Maps and information about the typhoon in Globe Freezone.

The map, which is also available in Filipino language, http://google.org/crisismap/2012-pablo-fil, shows the typhoon strength or signal in different parts of the country.

The map also shows the location of the eye of the typhoon, its track, and the location of the shelters all over the country. It also includes emergency hotlines and other useful information that Filipinos can use in helping residents in disaster-prone areas.

Globe users can access information about the typhoon for free using Free Zone in their mobile browsers.

Pablo is the 16th typhoon to hit the country this year. About 10 areas in Mindanao were placed under signal number 3. The typhoon is projected to move west at 26kph.

As of this writing, the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (Pagasa) said moderate to heavy rains are being felt in Cebu, Bohol, Leyte, Samar, Negros and Guimaras. While heavy to intense rains are being experienced over Maguindanao, Lanao, Sultan Kudarat, Sarangani and Cotabato.