Nationwide Emergency Alert Test to Sound Across UK Mobile Phones This September

Critical National Alert System Test Announced

The UK government has scheduled a nationwide test of the Emergency Alerts system for Sunday, 7 September 2025 at 3pm. During this test, all compatible 4G and 5G mobile phones and tablets will receive an alert, accompanied by a siren-like sound and vibration.

System’s Proven Track Record

Since the first national test in April 2023, the system has been activated five times during major emergencies. The most significant deployment occurred during Storm Éowyn in January 2025, reaching approximately 4.5 million people in Scotland and Northern Ireland. Another notable activation was during Storm Darragh in December 2024, which alerted 3.5 million people across Wales and the South West of England and ultimately claimed two lives.

The system has also proved valuable in other emergencies, including the discovery of an unexploded World War II bomb in Plymouth and during flash flooding incidents in Cumbria and Leicestershire.

Public Safety and Preparedness

The Emergency Alerts system serves as a crucial tool for warning the public about life-threatening situations, including extreme weather, and enables rapid distribution of vital information and advice during emergencies.

Prior to the test, the government will launch a comprehensive public information campaign, with special attention given to vulnerable groups, including victims of domestic abuse. The campaign will include materials in British Sign Language to ensure widespread accessibility.

Future Preparedness

This second national test is part of a broader Resilience Action Plan recently unveiled by the Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster, Pat McFadden, aimed at enhancing the government’s emergency response capabilities. Regular testing aligns with international best practices, following the example of countries like Japan and the USA.

‘Emergency Alerts have the potential to save lives, allowing us to share essential information rapidly in emergency situations including extreme storms,’ stated Pat McFadden, Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster, adding that ‘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.’