The UK government announces a major test of its Emergency Alerts system on Sunday, September 7, 2025, at 3pm BST.
This second nationwide trial will send a loud siren and vibration to around 87 million compatible mobile phones and tablets across the country.
The system warns people of life-threatening dangers like severe weather or evacuations, and the test ensures it works smoothly.
With the bank holiday approaching, authorities urge drivers to stay safe and not touch their phones during the alert.
Fans and residents in Europe and the UK prepare for this important public safety exercise as of 10:45 AM IST today, Saturday, August 30, 2025.
What Is the Emergency Alert System?
The Emergency Alerts system, launched in March 2023, uses cell broadcast technology to send instant warnings to phones in affected areas.
It covers threats like extreme storms, floods, or terror attacks, without needing your phone number or location data.
Alerts reach devices on 4G and 5G networks—even if set to silent—making a 10-second siren sound and vibration.
A message appears on screen with advice and a link to gov.uk/prepare for emergency tips.
Phones on 2G, 3G, airplane mode, or switched off won’t receive it.
The government stresses keeping alerts on for safety, but you can opt out via settings (search “emergency alerts” and disable “severe” or “extreme” options).
This test follows the first in April 2023, where some users got multiple alerts or none at all—about 7% of devices missed it, especially on Three network.
Improvements since then include better network fixes.
Real uses include Storm Éowyn in January 2025 (4.5 million alerts in Scotland and Northern Ireland) and Storm Darragh in December 2024 (3.5 million in Wales and southwest England), plus evacuations for a WWII bomb in Plymouth.
Test Details and What Happens
At 3pm on September 7, your phone will buzz and siren for 10 seconds if compatible (iOS 14.5+ or Android 11+). The message reads:
“This is a test of Emergency Alerts… You do not need to take any action. In a real emergency, follow the instructions… Visit gov.uk/alerts for more.”
No action required—it’s just a drill. The test reaches 95% of the population with 4G/5G coverage.
A public campaign starts soon, including British Sign Language videos and advice for vulnerable groups like domestic abuse victims (turn off hidden phones to avoid alerting abusers).
Chancellor Pat McFadden says, “Just like testing a smoke alarm, we must check our emergency systems to save lives.”
The test ties into a new Resilience Action Plan, investing £1.3 billion in biosecurity and £4.2 billion in flood defenses.
Advice for Drivers in Wales and UK Roads
Drivers face extra caution. In Wales, authorities warn against touching phones during the 3pm test—handling it while driving risks a £200 fine and six penalty points.
Graham Conway from Select Car Leasing notes, “The siren could distract you, increasing crash risk.” Pull over safely before checking.
Hands-free use is okay for emergencies (call 999/112 if stopping isn’t safe), but holding the phone—even mounted—is illegal.
New drivers risk license loss; careless driving could mean up to two years in prison.
Jo Stevens, Secretary of State for Wales, calls it “one of the biggest public safety exercises,” urging preparation.
Public Reactions on X
Social media buzzes with reminders and concerns. One user posted, “UK Emergency Alert Test on Sept 7 at 3pm—don’t touch your phone if driving! Fines up to £200.”
Another shared, “Reminder: Emergency Alert test Sunday—turn off hidden phones if in danger.”
Posts highlight the system’s life-saving potential but stress opting out for safety.
Why It Matters
This test builds public familiarity and fixes glitches from 2023.
With climate threats rising, the system could save lives—like during recent storms.
Check compatibility and prepare via gov.uk/prepare.
Stay tuned for test updates!