Prior to Hurricane Sandy’s landfall late yesterday, authorities urged citizens all up and down the Atlantic Coast to take shelter, and in many cases, evacuate their homes entirely. Many were unaware of the potentially devastating impact Sandy would have, and at this point still are unsure how best to handle the aftermath of flooding and widespread power outages. Luckily, for those who saved battery power on their smartphones, there are plenty of apps to help get through the damage and confusion.

Apps have the ability to entertain, organize, and inform. But they can also completely revolutionize the way we live our lives. Below are a few apps that can help those in danger of suffering from Hurricane Sandy’s destructive path, especially if they’re experiencing power outages in their area.

Hurricane

This app by the American Red Cross monitors conditions in your area with location-based alerts, providing step-by-step instructions for what to do if cell towers are down and the power is out. It also lets family and friends know you’re safe with customizable alerts compatible with Facebook, Twitter, email, and text. If the lights go out, the Hurricane Toolkit includes a strobe light, flashlight, and audible alert functions. Most importantly, the app allows you to keep an emergency situation under control by detailing how to assemble an emergency kit, find open Red Cross shelters nearby, and prepare food and water if your area is impacted by floods.

Home Inventory

Home Inventory allows you to protect your assets from theft and natural disasters by helping you catalogue all of your valuables in one space. You can enter and view your belongings in category or location mode and add up to nine photos per item, including receipts and other important documents. As soon as your data is entered it automatically synchronizes between your iPhone and the web app, so you can access the data at any time. You also have the option of adding your insurance information and allowing the app to calculate proper insurance coverage so you don’t have to. It’s a crucial app for families who can’t bring all their valuables with them in the event of an evacuation.

CaneCast

This app for iPhone and iPad provides a detailed forecast map that allows you to monitor a storm’s current locations and conditions, as well as view its expected path. In addition to tracking the strength and course of a hurricane, it’s also the only forecast app that gives the latest information about risk of high winds at any location.

Whether you need constant updates on Sandy’s impact to your area, basic survival tools, or help taking care of your most valuable belongings, there are apps to help. Just remember to stay calm, use the resources available to you, and be safe!