The UK Government has confirmed that a nationwide Emergency Alert will be sent to mobile phones at 3 PM on Sunday, 7th September 2025.
The test is designed to ensure the life-saving system operates effectively and to familiarise the public with how alerts will work during real emergencies.
What Is the UK Emergency Alert System?
The Emergency Alerts system is a critical public safety tool designed to warn individuals of serious threats to life, such as extreme weather events or other national emergencies.
Messages are sent directly to mobile phones using 4G and 5G networks, allowing authorities to deliver urgent information rapidly across the country. The system does not require phone numbers, location data, or mobile data to function, ensuring both privacy and wide coverage.
What to Expect on 7th September
How the Test Will Work
At approximately 3 PM, compatible mobile phones across the UK will:
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Emit a loud siren sound for about 10 seconds
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Vibrate, even if set to silent mode
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Display a message confirming the alert is only a test
The test applies to all compatible mobile phones and tablets connected to 4G or 5G networks. Devices that are switched off, connected to older networks, or Wi-Fi only will not receive the alert.
Supporting Vulnerable Groups
The government is working with domestic abuse charities to ensure individuals with concealed phones know how to disable alerts.
Full instructions on how to opt out are available at: www.gov.uk/alerts/opting-out
Accessibility features are also included for people who are deaf, hard of hearing, blind or partially sighted. Audio and vibration signals, combined with on-screen messages, will ensure the alert is received by as many people as possible.
When the Emergency Alerts System Has Been Used
| Date | Event | Regions Affected | Approximate Alerts Sent |
|---|---|---|---|
| January 2025 | Storm Éowyn (Red Weather Warning) | Scotland, Northern Ireland | 4.5 million |
| December 2024 | Storm Darragh | Wales, South West England | 3.5 million |
| Various | WW2 Bomb, Flash Flooding | Plymouth, Cumbria, Leicestershire | Localised alerts |
Why Regular Testing Matters
Emergency Alerts can provide vital, life-saving information during crises. Regular testing is standard practice in countries such as Japan, the United States, Finland, and Germany. These tests help ensure the system is reliable and familiar to the public.
The government stresses that no personal data, such as phone numbers or location information, is collected when alerts are issued.
Building National Resilience
The 7th September test forms part of a wider Resilience Action Plan.
Recent government initiatives include:
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£370 million invested in telecommunications security
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£4.2 billion for flood defence projects
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New National Biosecurity Centres to enhance preparedness
These steps support a nationwide strategy to strengthen the UK’s ability to respond to emergencies.
What Should You Do During the Test?
If you are driving, it is illegal to interact with your mobile device. Find a safe, legal place to stop before reading the message.
Otherwise, there is no action required.
Simply acknowledge the alert and continue your day as normal.
Stay Informed and Prepared
The UK Government’s Emergency Alert Test on 7th September ensures that vital safety systems are working as intended.
For full details and advice on how to prepare for the test, visit www.gov.uk/alerts.
Staying informed today helps protect lives tomorrow.
Sources: Cabinet Office and The Rt Hon Pat McFadden MP.
Prepared by Ivan Alexander Golden, Founder of THX News™, an independent news organization delivering timely insights from global official sources. Combines AI-analyzed research with human-edited accuracy and context.
