Germany tests nationwide emergency alert system

BERLIN

Germany on Thursday tested its nationwide alert system for crisis and disaster situations.

All mobile phones across Germany received an emergency alert at 10.59 a.m. local time, with a loud, siren-like sound. The alert was also broadcast on advertising boards, radios and TV stations.

“According to our first assessment, our nationwide warning systems have passed the major stress test,” Interior Minister Nancy Faeser said in a statement.

“A timely warning can save lives, whether there are fires, severe storms, wildfires or other hazards. We want to ensure that citizens can protect themselves and others in the best possible way and recognize dangers in good time,” she said.

Germany’s “Nationwide Alert Day” is held annually in September to raise public awareness of civil protection measures, test the nationwide warning system, and inform people about what future alerts would look like.