The UK government has successfully carried out its second nationwide test of the emergency alert system, sending loud alarms and messages to millions of mobile phones across the country.
While officials described the trial as largely smooth, some users reported issues, including receiving garbled or incomplete messages. BBC science reporter Esme Stallard was among those affected.
A government spokesperson, however, stressed that the alert was broadcast correctly, with mobile operators confirming that the system ran as expected and showing no evidence of widespread errors.
Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer hailed the test as an important milestone:
“This is an important step in keeping people safe during national emergencies,” he said, noting that tens of millions of devices successfully received the alert.
Reports from the public indicated that the alarm reached remote locations, including Land’s End, and even interrupted a flying lesson in Kent at several thousand feet in the air.
The sudden alert startled some, disrupting the quiet of places like the British Library, waking up pets, and shocking hearing aid users with its volume.
Despite the minor inconveniences, the government views the exercise as a critical step in preparing the nation for emergencies ranging from severe weather to public safety threats.
Source – My News Ghana
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