Smartphone storm trackers

This item appears on page 39 of the February 2012 issue.

With an Apple or Android smartphone, you can access weather-related applications. Using search words such as “hurricane” or “weather,” check your mobile device’s app store for products like these. Hurricane HD ($2.99; Apple products only) lets you track storms with radar and satellite imagery and provides bulletins, forecasts and video of storms past and present. IMap Weather Radio ($9.99; Apple currently, Android soon) sends you early-warning voice and text alerts of weather conditions for up to five locations. The Weather Channel (free; Apple and Android) has customizable weather maps, animated radar maps, alerts and forecasts. Global Alert Network (free; Apple and Android) broadcasts automatic, hands-free audio alerts re weather and traffic conditions in your area.