Millions to get emergency alert test message on September 7
People in Wales are being reminded to expect a loud emergency alert on their phones on Sunday 7 September as part of a UK-wide test of the government’s alert system.
The system is designed to provide urgent safety advice during life-threatening situations.
Phones connected to 4G and 5G networks will vibrate and emit a siren-like sound for up to ten seconds at around 3pm, with a message appearing on the screen confirming the test.
The exercise follows the use of the system during Storm Darragh in December 2024, when a red weather warning was issued.
Around three million people in Wales and south-west England received the alert, warning of dangerous conditions.
Jo Stevens, Secretary of State for Wales, said: “On Sunday 7 September at around 3pm, mobile phones on 4G and 5G networks across Wales and the whole of the UK will vibrate and emit a loud siren-like sound for up to ten seconds, marking one of the biggest public safety exercises in our nation’s history.
“There’s no app or sign-up, just a life-saving alert when it matters. This UK-wide test will help ensure it works as it should when we need it.
“We used the system during Storm Darragh to alert around three million phones when there was a red weather warning meaning lives were at risk.”
Ahead of the test, a public information campaign is running to notify people, including targeted communications for vulnerable groups such as victims of domestic abuse. The campaign has featured the first national information video in British Sign Language.
The full test message has also been published, making clear it is a drill and directing people to GOV.UK/PREPARE for advice on preparing for emergencies.
This will be the second national test of the system, which the government has committed to run regularly. Similar alert systems are already used in countries such as Japan and the USA.
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