If your phone suddenly blares an alarm this evening, don’t panic—it’s just a test.

Between 6pm and 7pm, the National Emergency Management Agency will be running a nationwide trial of New Zealand’s Emergency Mobile Alert system.

These alerts are designed to warn locals of serious threats like natural disasters or public health risks.

They’re issued only by authorised agencies like Police, Fire and Emergency, and the Ministry of Health.

Sunday’s alert is just a drill to make sure the system works as intended.

Most phones purchased in New Zealand since 2017 should receive the alert, as long as they’ve got mobile reception and their software is up to date.

There’s no app to download and no subscription needed—the alert is broadcast automatically to capable devices in the affected area.

If you’ve got kids, pets, or elderly family members who might find the loud tone distressing, it’s a good idea to switch phones off or put them in flight mode for the hour.

Silent mode won’t stop the sound on all devices.

Whether it’s a tsunami warning or a public health risk, these alerts help get important information out fast.

If you don’t receive the alert and think your phone should have, check that it supports cell broadcasts and has the latest software installed. Some imported models may not be compatible.

It’s just a test—but it could save lives when it counts.

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