WDSU is is gearing up for the heart of hurricane season in New Orleans by launching a new hurricane tracking app to provide smartphone users with comprehensive information on approaching storms.

The New Orleans NBC affiliate announced the launch of a free app, available for download on the Android or iPhone, called “Hurricane Central.” The software, created in partnership with Clio mobile, will give users the ability to track storms in real time, as well as providing a live stream of information from government agencies and area utilities. It will also include the Twitter feeds of WDSU meteorologists.

“We are proud to expand our suite of mobile apps to include a free application that allows our viewers and users to be well prepared for a hurricane and to manage an evacuation intelligently,” WDSU president and general manager Joel Vilmenay said.

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WWL, along with New Orleans media company Zehnder Communications, has unveiled a new mobile app for Mardi Gras revelers.

The Belo-owned CBS-affiliate teamed with Zehnder to create a free app (now available on iTunes and the Android Market) called “Experience Mardi Gras,” which provides live updates on parades and other events happening in the area.

“We designed this app to be the ultimate tool for Mardi Gras,” said David Robison, director of digital media for WWL. “Whether you’re a die-hard local, out-of-towner, traveling by yourself or with a group, this app keeps all the details updated and in one place.”

The app’s location-based information will be supplemented by parade video and interviews from WWL.  It will also include ads from sponsors Zatarain’s and Tabasco.