Disaster warning - the best apps
Disaster warnings are disseminated through the satellite-based "Modular Warning System", e.g. B. to radio stations. There are increasingly apps that also bring warning messages to the smartphone. We present three of these apps to you.
1st warning app NINA from the BBK
NINA is the official emergency information and news app from the Federal Office for Civil Protection and Disaster Relief.
- The app warns of dangers such as storms, floods, major fires and accidents. Other so-called major loss situations are also reported.
- NINA works across Germany and also warns of regional dangers, for example when World War II bombs are defused.
- In the event of bad weather, the app warns with data from the German Weather Service, but offers little information. For this area, you should also download a special app for severe weather warnings.
- NINA not only warns, but also gives tips for correct behavior in an emergency. You will find this information in the "Emergency tips" section.
- The app is available for Android and iOS. It is also available as a web app.
2. Katwarn of the German Weather Service
This app was developed by Fraunhofer Focus, on behalf of public insurers.
- Nationwide, Katwarn warns of severe weather and uses the information provided by the German Weather Service.
- If you live in Hamburg, Berlin, Rhineland-Palatinate or Saarland, the app will inform you about country-wide dangers. Some districts and independent cities are also connected to the system and issue regional reports.
- However, the app only works in a limited space. You have to enter your zip code and you can define a radius by entering seven additional zip codes. If you stay in this area, you will receive messages. This area can be quite small, especially in areas with a high postcode density.
- Katwarn is also available for Android and iOS smartphones.
3. Warning weather of the German Weather Service
As the name suggests, WarnWetter warns of severe weather, black ice and other weather hazards.
- With WarnWetter, the German Weather Service brings information on weather-related dangers to smartphones.
- In addition to the classic weather warnings, you will also receive information about floods, storm surges and avalanches.
- WarnWetter is a weather app and therefore includes all the usual features such as weather forecasts.
- WarnWetter is free for Android and iOS.
If you are on a bike with a warning message, you should have read our article on the best navigation tools for bicycles.