Date when armageddon siren will sound on all UK phones in emergency alert test
Mobile phones across the UK will emit a loud, unavoidable siren at 3pm on Sunday, September 7, as part of a nationwide test of the Government's emergency alert system.
The alarm, which will sound for around 10 seconds even if phones are on silent, is part of a drill to prepare for real-life emergencies. A warning message will flash on screens, clearly stating it's just a test, and users can simply swipe it away or press 'OK', reports the Mirror.
This marks the second national test of the system, first rolled out in 2023 and since used five times to alert the public during extreme weather and other life-threatening events.
Pat McFadden, Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster, said: 'Emergency alerts have the potential to save lives. They allow us to quickly share vital information in dangerous situations, such as severe storms.
'Just like a fire alarm at home, testing ensures the system works when we need it most.'
One of the largest real uses of the alert was during Storm Eowyn in January 2024, when 4.5 million people in Scotland and Northern Ireland were warned following a red weather warning. Another 3.5 million received alerts during Storm Darragh, while messages were also sent during flash flooding in Cumbria and Leicestershire.
The alert system was also activated in Plymouth earlier this year when a World War II bomb was discovered, helping officials evacuate over 10,000 people.
Tracey Lee, Chief Executive of Plymouth City Council, said the alert played a 'vital role' in coordinating the emergency response.
Similar systems operate in countries like Japan, the US, and Germany, with Finland running monthly national tests.
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A public awareness campaign will launch ahead of the UK-wide test, with special attention to vulnerable groups, including domestic abuse survivors. While the alerts are strongly recommended for everyone, the Government has confirmed it is possible to opt out—particularly for those who may be put at risk by a sudden alert sound.
Campaigners have previously raised concerns the siren could expose people with hidden phones to abusive partners.
The test comes as the Government publishes a new strategy to improve the UK's readiness and response to national emergencies. Ministers are also releasing an update on the 2023 Biological Security Strategy, aimed at better pandemic preparedness.
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