The UK government has confirmed that a nationwide test of the Emergency Alert system will take place on Sunday, 7 September at 3pm. The alert will be sent to all 4G and 5G mobile phones across the country, causing them to vibrate and emit a loud siren sound for up to ten seconds, even if set to silent mode.
This will be only the second nationwide test of the system, which was first launched in 2023. The test aims to assess the system's readiness for future emergencies and to familiarise the public with the alerts. Since its inception, the system has been used during real emergencies, including Storm Darragh in December 2024, when over three million people were advised to stay indoors due to 90mph winds.
Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster, Pat McFadden, said: "Emergency Alerts have the potential to save lives, allowing us to share essential information rapidly in emergency situations including extreme storms. Just like the fire alarm in your house, it's important we test the system so that we know it will work if we need it."
Prior to the test, the government will launch a public information campaign, including targeted communications for vulnerable groups such as victims of domestic abuse, and resources in British Sign Language. The most extensive deployment of the system to date occurred in January 2025 during Storm Éowyn, when approximately 4.5 million residents in Scotland and Northern Ireland received an alert.
