Go to earth.google.com to download the software. The "open Google Earth" function will not work without Google Earth being installed. We strongly suggest you learn how to use Google Earth and understand all of its capabilities. We will not be able to support your questions about Google Earth.

There are 2 methods in which HURRTRAK interfaces with Google Earth (GE).

-          Graphic Export

-          KML language interface

Each method is described in more detail below.

Graphic Export: 

The Hurrtrak system has the ability to export “ANY” graphic image that is currently being viewed within the system to a format that can then be viewed using Google Earth. When selected, Hurrtrak will automatically display the image on Google Earth without any other user key/mouse strokes needed. Depending on the image, land and sea areas are set to transparent, allowing the Google Earth maps to show through. Please keep in mind that the graphics will enlarge as you zoom in with Google Earth... i.e. the detail will remain constant.

An example of an exported image is shown below.

Export of wind pattern around Wilma

KML Export:

Definitely more powerful than Graphic Export is the KML method… In this case, the Hurrtrak system has the ability to export key hurricane tracking and analysis data to Google Earth via it’s native interface language called KML. Somewhat similar to a GIS type language, KML allows data to be presented many different ways including a three dimensional manner. The data types that are available for export from HURRTRAK to Google Earth are updated yearly and are shown at the Google Earth Export topic.

There is one additional type of SLOSH export which is found in the SLOSHVIEW program. 

When one of these is selected,, the system will create the KML If GE is installed, GE will start up and display the data requested on the GE interface. There are several considerations when using the KML Export method. 

1. Make sure you are running the latest version of Google Earth.
2. Within the tracking system, the user has the ability to generate multiple KML files/layers with a single selection of “ALL SELECTED OUTPUT”. The outputs that will be created is controlled within the General Options of User Preferences. Most users will select a subset of all of the possible outputs.
3. When exporting multiple layers at once, we suggest you deselect all of them initially in GE and then select the data you want to view. If you don’t do this you may be presented with something that looks like the image on the next page.
4. GE has animation controls which will allow you to control the animation characteristics.
5. When viewing SLOSH storm surge polygons on GE, make sure you do the following
1. have the “Terrain” layer on (checked) in GE
2. In GE options, set the terrain quality to its max value
3. In GE options, set the terrain exaggeration to a value of 1
4. Zoom in as far as you can in order to analyze the data as the terrain data is not reflected at a low to medium zoom level. You may have to experiment with this.
5. Turning 3D Buildings on in GE will create some interesting affects.
6. Learn Google Earth (it’s not that hard)

The following is an example of multiple (TOO MANY) KML layers on one image.

It is best to deselect all of the layers within GE first and then display only the ones you want to see together at the same time. See image below.