Millions of UK smartphones to receive test alert on Sunday

Millions of people will receive the alert this week

It is expected millions of people across the UK will hear an alarm go off on their phones today.

It's because the government will be testing its emergency alert system.

The nationwide test is expected to happen around 3pm for phones that are compatible.

Phones will vibrate and make a siren sound for 10 seconds while displaying a message making it clear the alert is only a test, even if phones are set to silent.

It's not the first time the emergency alert system has been tested.

The first one happened in April 2023, but some people got the alert early, while others didn't get it at all.

The alert will only work for smartphones on 4G or 5G networks.

Older phones and phones connected to 2G or 3G networks, will not receive the message.

What is the alert for?

The government says the emergency alert could be used to warn people about danger nearby.

For example, it could be used if you're near somewhere where it may flood, for big fires, or extreme weather, like blizzards or big storms.

It could also be used during terror incidents or emergencies if the UK was under attack.

Only emergency services or the government will send warnings, so they say it's important to listen to them if you get one.

The alert could be used to warn people about dangers like areas where it may flood

"Emergency alerts have the potential to save lives, allowing us to share essential information rapidly in emergency situations including extreme storms," government minister Pat McFadden.

"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."

He added: "I know Brits will keep their cool when phones across the UK make a siren-like noise... It's important to remember this is only a test, just like the fire drills we all do in our schools and workplaces."

Other countries, including Japan and the US, have similar emergency alert systems which they regularly test.