(Released 10 April 2017) The new “Water On-the-Go” mobile app gives the public easy access to current conditions in streams across Texas. This product was developed by the U.S. Geological Survey to help raise water awareness during both floods and normal conditions.

According to National Weather Service, floods kill about 80 people in the United States per year on average. Nearly half of those deaths are in Texas, and more than 60 percent of people die within a vehicle. When water levels are rising, obtaining critical information about impacted areas can be difficult, especially when a computer isn’t readily available.

The new, mobile-friendly website/app will allow users to quickly locate USGS gages in Texas that measure streamflow, stream height, rainfall or lake levels so that users can get up-to-date information on water conditions near where they are located. The app provides critical data during flood events and can also be used by recreationalists to help determine the best places or times to go boating, fishing or hiking.

The app offers three ways to view streamflow or other data, including, using your phone’s GPS system, clicking on an area of interest, or searching for a physical location. Results show what is happening in streams and lakes near you and how quickly conditions are changing around you.

“Water On-the-Go” also includes integration with USGS Water Alert.  Released in 2010, Water Alert is a subscription service that provides user-specified water information at USGS streamgage locations direct to your mobile device or email inbox. Water Alert can provide messages on an hourly or daily basis.  Click the ‘subscribe’ button in the “Water On-the-Go” mobile app to get connected.

Texans can go to https://txpub.usgs.gov/water-onthego/ and bookmark the link today.

Contact:
Jennifer LaVista
Public Affairs Specialist
USGS Office of Communications
Email: jlavista@usgs.gov
Phone: 303-202-4764

Released by United States Geological Survey. Click here for source.