PUBLIC ALERTS. Google launches Public Alerts to help Japan in crisis situations. Screenshot from Google.

MANILA, Philippines - On Thursday, March 7, Google announced the first expansion to its crisis preparedness and response service, which is now called Google Public Alerts.

The Google Public Alerts system will first be available in Japan, serving as a platform for getting "accurate and relevant emergency alerts when and where you’re searching for them online." Information for this particular service is provided by the Japan Meteorological Agency.

Google explains that crisis alerts for Japan will now appear on Google Search, Google Maps and Google Now. The company explains, "If a major earthquake alert is issued in Kanagawa Prefecture, for example, the alert information will appear on your desktop and mobile screens when you search for relevant information on Google Search and Google Maps."

The service will also take advantage of an Android device's connectivity, relaying recommended actions and information to one's location. - Rappler.com