Are you ready for Sunday?
Sunday will bring a jarring noise from your phone, even if it’s on silent, as the government tests its Emergency Alerts system across the UK.
On Sunday 7 September at 3pm, the national test will send a message to most mobile phones and tablets.
This will be accompanied by a loud siren-like sound and a vibration that lasts about 10 seconds.
The message will clearly state it is a test. The sound will override your normal volume settings, which is a key feature of the system for genuine emergencies.
The test is happening to make sure the system works correctly. It is designed to warn people when there is a danger to life, such as severe weather or flooding.
Since the first test in 2023, the system has been used for real-life storms. Just like practicing a fire drill, these tests are crucial to ensure the system is ready when it is needed.
The alert lasts for a brief 10 seconds. Since it is happening on a Sunday afternoon, it is timed to cause minimal disruption to schools and workplaces.
