Ever hear of crisis mapping? It’s what you get when people scattered around the world use open-source digital cartography tools like OpenStreetMap to create detailed maps where they’re needed (and absent) most: locations that have been ravaged by disaster. Right now volunteers are building out maps in the Philippines, where Super Typhoon Haiyan has devastated massive swaths of the country. The Atlantic has a great write-up all about the current spike in crisis mapping.
Want to lend a hand yourself? You’ll be able to this weekend in Burlington. The Humanitarian Openstreetmap Team will host Crisis Camp Philippines as part of this month’s Code for BTV meetup this Saturday from 1-5 p.m. at Office Squared’s 77 College Street space. Locals will be able to help plot maps in typhoon-damaged locations. No experience is necessary; just bring a laptop and training will be provided. Click here to RSVP for the event.
Photo via Twitter user @RBanick