Britain is preparing for a nationwide emergency alert test next weekend, during which all mobile devices across the country will simultaneously emit a loud siren. Handsets connected to 4G or 5G networks will produce a piercing sound for up to 10 seconds to assess the nation’s readiness for significant disasters. The drill is scheduled to commence precisely at 3 pm on Sunday, September 7, with mobile phones also receiving a text message indicating that it is a test run.
This emergency warning system has been activated five times before, including during Storm Eowyn in January, where messages were sent to residents in Scotland and Northern Ireland regarding severe weather conditions. In December 2024, alerts were issued to 3.5 million individuals after Storm Darragh struck Wales and the South West.
The nationwide notification network is designed for use during potential crises such as floods and fires. It was also employed to alert locals when an unexploded World War II bomb was found in Plymouth last year. The trial message for the upcoming test has been revealed, emphasizing that it is a demonstration of the Emergency Alerts service provided by the UK government to warn of nearby life-threatening emergencies.
Pat McFadden, Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster, emphasized the importance of the Emergency Alerts system for ensuring public safety during critical situations. He highlighted the effectiveness of the system in providing life-saving advice to at-risk communities swiftly during severe weather events like Storm Darragh and Storm Eowyn. McFadden likened the system to a fire alarm, always ready for action when needed.
