Mobile phones to receive emergency alert in national test - here's what to expect
The emergency alert text will be sent to mobile phones across the UK at around 3pm on Sunday, September 7, in its second-ever nationwide drill.
Phones will vibrate for roughly ten seconds - even if they are set to silent - and a message will appear on phone screens, making it clear it is a test.
The first time the system was tested was in April 2023, but some mobile phone users warned that their devices did not sound, with the problem traced to specific networks.
Why is it taking place?
The emergency alert system is used to spread information and advice rapidly, and is used to warn if there is a danger to life nearby, in instances like extreme weather.
Regular testing ensures the system is functioning correctly, should it be needed in an emergency, and familiarises the public with the alerts.
Who will and won't receive the alert?
During the test, the UK's approximately 87 million mobile devices will ring out with a high pitched alarm and vibrate for approximately 10 seconds, while a message will appear on the screen making it clear the alert is only a test.
The system has already been used in several scenarios – including storms, flooding and in one case when an unexploded Second World War bomb was discovered.
Emergency alerts work on all 4G and 5G phone networks in the UK, and a mobile phone or tablet does not have to be connected to mobile data or wifi to receive them.
Alerts will not be received if a device is turned off, connected to a 2G or 3G network, wifi only, or not compatible.
Ahead of the national test, ministers are spearheading a public awareness campaign to ensure people understand when it is taking place.
Domestic violence charities and campaigners are working with victims of abuse to ensure they know how to switch off alerts on a concealed phone.
People who find themselves in this situation are being told to consult details about opting out from alerts on gov.uk, the Government website.
Disability charities and campaigners are also being consulted to support disabled people, and drivers are being encouraged to find somewhere safe and legal to stop before reading the message.
No personal data will be collected or shared as part of the test.
When has it been used before?
Since the first national test of the emergency alerts system in 2023, five alerts have been sent.
4.5 million people in Scotland and Northern Ireland received an alert during Storm Eowyn in January 2025
3.5 million people across Wales and the South West of England received an alert during Storm Darragh, which killed two people, in December 2024
Other activations included when an unexploded Second World War bomb was discovered in Plymouth and localised flash flooding in Cumbria and Leicestershire.
What else is the government doing?
The government is publishing a Resilience Action Plan on Tuesday to improve the way it prepares for and responds to emergencies, and will publish an update on action being taken to secure the country from biological risks.
Pat McFadden, Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster, is the Cabinet Office minister who has taken charge of efforts to boost national resilience against crises.
He 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."
Other countries, including Japan and the USA, also regularly test their emergency alert systems.
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