Sheltr

Landing Page
Log In Page
Profile Page
Dashboard Page
Preparation Page
Checklist Page
Hurricane Shelters Page

Inspiration

Last year, Hurricane Milton hit Florida’s Gulf Coast, bringing strong winds and life-threatening storm surges that affected many areas around Tampa. Streets were flooded, power was knocked out for days, and many residents were caught off guard—despite living in a high-risk area. We saw how difficult it was for people to access timely, accurate information and find nearby shelters or know what to do next.

Seeing the panic, confusion, and lack of centralized support, we were inspired to build a tool that helps people prepare before the chaos begins.

Sheltr was born out of the need to provide accessible and real-time for communities like Tampa. Our mission is to make hurricane preparedness simple, personal, and proactive—so the next time a storm forms, people don’t just react—they’re ready.

What it does

Sheltr is a hurricane disaster prevention web app that helps users prepare, plan, and protect themselves and their families before and during a hurricane. Key features include:

🌪️ Real-time hurricane tracking and alerts using NOAA data and the Gemini API
📦 Personalized emergency supply checklist based on household size, pets, and location
🏠 Nearby shelter locator using Google Maps API
🔋 Power outage tips, emergency contact storage, and first aid guidance
📊 AI-powered risk assessment based on local weather, elevation, and flood zones

How we built it

Frontend: React.js with Tailwind CSS for responsive, mobile-friendly design
Backend: Node.js and Express.js for APIs and authentication
Database: MongoDB Atlas for user data and preferences
APIs Used:
- Gemini API for real-time alert summaries
- Google Maps API for shelter navigation

Challenges we ran into

Handling real-time data updates efficiently without overwhelming the UI
Integrating offline functionality without bloating the app
Creating a user-friendly experience that remains usable under stress or limited internet
Accurate risk modeling using geolocation and elevation APIs
Coordinating API limits and ensuring failover strategies in emergencies

Accomplishments that we're proud of

Created a clean, calming design to help reduce user anxiety during a crisis
Incorporated AI risk prediction in a meaningful, explainable way
Built a fully functional, disaster-preparedness app with real-life utility

What we learned

How to use APIs like Google Maps and Gemini in real-world disaster applications
The importance of UX under stress — simple, readable UI design can save lives
How to build for resilience and accessibility, like offline access and low-bandwidth usage
That even simple tech solutions can make a massive difference when designed with care

What’s next for Sheltr

Add multi-language support for non-English speakers in hurricane-prone areas
Partner with local shelters and governments to provide verified shelter data
Introduce a community check-in system to mark yourself or loved ones safe
Make the app reachable offline for emergency access.