Google launches ‘Missing Person Finder’ for Earthquake hit Japan

Rising to the need of the hour, Google has responded to the devastating earthquake, which shook Japan on Friday. With a magnitude of 8.9 on the Richter scale, it is the largest recorded earthquake in over a hundred years. The succeeding Tsunami, aftershocks and fires have made the situation even worse.

Google has launched a ‘Person Finder’ tool to compile and provide information on missing persons. The person finder tool, which has already recorded information on thousands of missing persons, can be accessed at ‘japan.person-finder.appspot.com’. The tool is a portal for reporting missing persons and adding information about a missing person. The data is public and visible to everyone.

Those searching for information on the quake and tsunami can access the resource links offered by Google Crisis Center (google.com/crisisresponse/japanquake2011). The site is also supplemented with maps and other resources. The maps can help those who are seeking shelter. All shelter sites in Tokyo have been marked and information on their supplies and accommodation is incorporated. The site also has links to news, bulletins, train information and the Pacific Tsunami Warning Center.
Google had earlier offered the same services during Egypt protests and Christchurch floods in New Zealand. The usefulness of the “Person Finder’ tool cannot be undermined as it has risen up to the task quite well. However, Google has warned that the data on the tool has not been reviewed and verified, and that there are chances of discrepancies.

Image Source : voices.washingtonpost.com