Emergency readiness is one of the main focuses of a new weather app.
Gerald Cheng, a meteorologist with Environment Canada, says the app is currently in its testing phase and they're looking for people to try it out.
Cheng says all the spots for those with iPhone's are full but Android users can still down load it.
He says Environment Canada wants to reach as many people as possible when it comes to severe weather alerts.
Adding mobile devices to the list of ways people can be notified, including TV, radio and Twitter, could save lives.
Cheng says the recent string of tornados in Ottawa and southwestern Ontario is a good example of when the app could be very useful.
Once downloaded, people can turn the “Notifications” option ON and then select the region of their choice.
According to Cheng the testing phase is very important so any “bugs” can be worked out prior to its launch.
He's not sure when the exact launch date will be but now that they're in the testing phase it should come sooner rather than later.
