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Cornell Student Creates Interactive Map for Wildfire Relief

Staff Report / FLXlocal.org

**Cornell Doctoral Student Develops Aid Map for Los Angeles Wildfire Relief**

In a remarkable display of innovation and compassion, Johan Michalove, a doctoral student at Cornell University, has created an interactive map to assist those affected by the ongoing wildfires in Los Angeles. Though based nearly 3,000 miles away in New York City, Michalove stepped up to help during this critical time.

Michalove, who is pursuing a degree in information science through the Cornell Ann S. Bowers College of Computing and Information Science, developed and launched the map on January 8. The timing was intentional, as wildfires near Los Angeles had intensified. The map has since become an invaluable online resource, connecting thousands of residents in the greater Los Angeles area.

The platform functions as a hub where users can find provisions, donate supplies, or take part in volunteer efforts. Michalove refers to the project as a "cartography of care."

"I like to say that I build at the speed of crisis," Michalove explained. He views the map as more than a tool — it is also a testament to the collective goodwill of the community. "It’s vastly underestimated just how much people want to help their neighbors and help their community," he said.

Michalove's work underscores the potential of technology to bring communities together during challenging times.

Source: Cornell University

Source Type: College

Source Location: Ithaca

Jan 31, 2025 at 2:30 PM

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