I think the use of the term "outdated" in the title is misleading. "Outdated" would imply that there is something newer and better that provides the same type of service. If there is, it was not mentioned in the article. The term "lacking" or "needs improvement" would have been more clear.

Here in San Diego County, CA, we have a special app for emergency information including alerts. The alerts are limited to one line on the opening screen, but tapping on them brings up a detailed screen with much more text and links to government sites and related twitter feeds.

There are also several other sections; Planning, Preparing, Disaster Info, Maps, Shelters, Resources, Assistance, and Guidance. It is quite comprehensive. One downside is that people have to download the app so lots of people don't have it. I don't see a solution for that, unfortunately.