The wildfire app that has gained popularity in America is aiming to tackle even larger disasters.

      Watch Duty became crucial during wildfires and now aims to alert users about floods.

      Watch Duty gained popularity as an app that many Americans sought after wildfires ravaged Los Angeles in early 2025. The nonprofit is now looking to expand its utility for other natural disasters.

      CEO and cofounder John Mills shared with Fast Company that the initiative to include flood monitoring has been in the works for years. The nationwide flood coverage launched on June 8, giving users across the US access to both flood data and mapping alongside the existing wildfire information within the app.

      Flood alerts are now available on Watch Duty.

      Watch Duty established its reputation by organizing a chaotic influx of emergency information into a digestible format for users. The flood system aggregates official warnings, precipitation statistics, river gauges, and mapping that would typically be distributed among various services. During critical situations, trained reporters can supplement verified information and context from emergency response teams.

      Mills indicated that floods necessitate a different approach compared to wildfires. Watch Duty utilizes Doppler radar, USGS stream gauges, and precipitation sensors that offer a comprehensive data trail before severe conditions arise. The organization also incorporates reports from NOAA and the National Weather Service for clearer context regarding changing river levels and precipitation and their implications for nearby communities.

      In addition to this, Watch Duty asserts that its reporters will monitor radio scanners, cameras, satellites, emergency dispatches, and official updates before determining whether an event poses a risk to life or property; ensuring that a human element remains vital before alerts are issued.

      Watch Duty

      The wildfire app is evolving into a disaster response app.

      Since its launch, Watch Duty’s reach has consistently grown. It broadened wildfire monitoring across the nation in December 2025, and its annual report from that year indicated that the number of active users reached 16.8 million. During the Los Angeles fire incidents alone, the app supported eight million users while ensuring full operational uptime.

      Flood alerts remain free and devoid of ads, similar to its wildfire notifications. Watch Duty has also clarified that its plans extend beyond these two hazards, as its annual report outlines a vision for an all-encompassing hazard system to provide reliable emergency information throughout the country.