UK to Conduct Nationwide Emergency Alert Test on September 7
The United Kingdom is set to conduct its second nationwide Emergency Alert test on Sunday, September 7, 2025, at 3:00 pm BST, as part of a broader effort to strengthen the country’s crisis response infrastructure. The test will involve sending a loud alarm and message to millions of mobile phones across the nation, even those set on silent.
Emergency Alert
The Emergency Alert system is designed to issue immediate warnings in situations that pose a threat to life, such as severe flooding, wildfires, terrorist incidents, or other large-scale emergencies. The message will be accompanied by a distinct ten-second siren sound and vibration, ensuring recipients are immediately notified. To resume using their phone, users will be required to acknowledge the message.
This alert will be sent to all compatible smartphones connected to 4G or 5G networks. Devices using older 2G or 3G services, Wi-Fi-only phones, or switched-off devices will not receive the alert. The test is expected to reach more than 87 million devices across the country.
National Test
This marks the second full-scale test of the Emergency Alert system following the UK’s first trial held on April 23, 2023. Since its implementation, the system has been used in real emergencies, including during major storms and a controlled evacuation in Plymouth due to a World War II bomb discovery.
Ahead of the test, the government will launch a nationwide public awareness campaign. This includes special attention to the needs of vulnerable populations, such as domestic abuse survivors and individuals with hearing or cognitive impairments. Measures such as British Sign Language versions of alerts are also planned.
Public Warning System
Officials view the test as a vital part of the UK’s Resilience Action Plan, which includes preparedness for biological threats, natural disasters, and other national emergencies. Pat McFadden, the Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster, emphasized the importance of regular testing, likening it to routine fire drills in homes and workplaces.
