The UK government is testing the Emergency Alerts system today, Sunday 7 September 2025 at 3pm.
Compatible mobile phones and tablets will receive an alert, make a loud siren-like sound and vibrate. This will last for 10 seconds, even if set to silent. They will also display a message explaining that a test is taking place.
You will not need to take any action.
The Emergency Alerts system is used to warn if there’s a danger to life nearby, including extreme weather. Regular testing ensures the system is functioning correctly, should it need to be used in a life-threatening emergency.
The text of the message will read: "This is a test of Emergency Alerts, a UK government service that will warn you if there's a life-threatening emergency nearby.
"You do not need to take any action. In a real emergency, follow the instructions in the alert to keep yourself and others safe."
Older phones or those not connected to 4G or 5G networks may not be compatible with the system, and phones that are switched off or in airplane mode will not get the alert.

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