A nationwide test of the Emergency Mobile Alert system will occur between 6 and 7 p.m. on Sunday, 26 May 2024, broadcasting alerts to all capable mobile phones across the country.

This annual test aims to evaluate the functionality of the Emergency Mobile Alert system, including the performance of cell towers and the ability of mobile phones to receive alerts.

The test also serves to familiarise the public with the appearance and presentation of an Emergency Mobile Alert on their phones.

This year, the system has already been used multiple times for both local and national emergencies, including nationwide alerts related to the COVID-19 pandemic.

The previous nationwide test occurred on the evening of 28 May 2023.

According to the 2021 Annual Disaster Preparedness Survey, nine out of ten people received an alert or were with someone who received one during an emergency.

This statistic highlights the widespread reach and importance of the alert system in ensuring public safety.

Emergency Mobile Alerts are sent by authorised emergency agencies to inform the public about serious hazards.

These alerts, which are designed to keep people safe, are broadcast from targeted cell towers to all capable mobile phones in the affected area.

Alerts are issued only when there is a serious threat to life, health, or property, or for test purposes.

The nationwide test is a critical component in maintaining the reliability of the Emergency Mobile Alert system.

Residents across the country can expect to receive the test alert during the specified hour, which will help ensure they recognise and understand the alerts in actual emergency situations.