About five million phones in New Zealand will receive a mobile emergency alert when the system is tested on Sunday evening.NZ Civil Defense will test the system on May 26 between 6pm and 7pm.
“In a genuine emergency, an alert can be sent to areas affected by serious hazards,” NZ Civil Defense said.
“If you get a warning, stop, read the message and take it seriously.
'It states what the emergency situation is and what you must do.
“It also tells you which agency sent the message and, if necessary, where you can go for more information.”
The alert is sent from targeted cell towers to all eligible phones.
If your phone is turned on, enabled and the software is up to date, you will receive the alert.
The NZ Civil Defense said the warnings are not intended to replace other emergency warnings or the need to take action following natural warnings.
“Don't wait for an official warning if you think your life is in danger. Take immediate action.”
- Learn more about the Emergency Mobile Alerts system here.