The American Red Cross has launched a Tornado App, putting lifesaving information right in the hands of people who live in, visit or have loved ones in tornado-prone areas.

This free app — available in English or Spanish — gives iPhone, iPad and Android smart phone and tablet users instant access to local and real-time information so they know what to do before, during and after a tornado.

The app includes a high-pitched siren and “tornado warning” alert that signals people when a NOAA tornado warning has been issued in their area — even if the app is closed. An “all clear!” alert lets users know when a tornado warning has expired or has been cancelled.

“Tornadoes often happen in the overnight hours when people are sleeping,” said Jeffrey Putnam, executive director of the Northwest Georgia Chapter. “The audible alerts in this app can save lives - even if users can’t monitor the weather because they are away from radio, TV or in places where weather band radios may not work.”

Other features of the app include:

Location-based NOAA tornado, severe thunderstorm and flood watch and warning alerts;

Enhanced weather maps and information provided by Weather Underground, a digital brand of The Weather Company;

One-touch “I’m safe” messaging that allows users to broadcast reassurance to family and friends that they are out of harm’s way;

Simple steps and checklists people can use to create an emergency plan and share it with household members;

Preloaded content that gives users instant access to critical action steps, even without mobile connectivity;

Toolkit with flashlight, strobe light and audible alarm;

Locations of open Red Cross shelters; and

Badges users can earn through interactive quizzes and share on social networks.

The Tornado App, along with the others, can be found in the Apple App Store and the Google Play Store for Android by searching for American Red Cross or by going to redcross.org/mobileapps.