WebProNews

The search engine company has made post-hurricane images of New Orleans available on Google Maps.

Satellite photos of New Orleans, taken on Wednesday, August 31, at 10:00 a.m. have become available via Google Maps, according to a new entry in the site's blog.

Instructions for viewing the newer images were posted by Google Maps Product Manager Bret Taylor to the Google Blog:

"Enter "New Orleans" in the search field at the top of the page, or drag and zoom the map to the area. A red "Katrina" button will appear at the top right of the map, next to the existing map buttons. Older images for the area are still available too - click the "Satellite" button to switch to those.

"API developers can also access this new imagery, which should aid the development of hurricane relief sites."
Developers have been discussing the update and other available image resources. One mentioned in a discussion thread that NOAA has made images of the hurricane available online.

Agencies like the Red Cross and the Salvation Army have requested donations to help with evacuee assistance. Both organizations provide mechanisms via their web sites to donate; options for contributing by phone or mail can be found as well.

David Utter is a staff writer for WebProNews covering technology and business. Email him here.