The Cabinet Office has announced the issuance of an Emergency Alert to residents in parts of England and Wales as the Met Office places a red wind warning in effect. The warning, set to begin at 3:00 AM on Saturday, 7 December, will remain active until 11:00 AM, with damaging winds expected to cause widespread disruption.
Largest Use of Emergency Alert System
At 6:45 PM today, the Emergency Alert system will send notifications to all compatible mobile phones in the affected areas, marking the largest-ever deployment of the system outside of testing.
The alert will include:
- Information about the red warning.
- Guidance on how to stay safe during the severe weather.
Mobile phones receiving the alert will emit a loud siren-like sound, even if set to silent. The sound and vibration will last for approximately 10 seconds.
Government Preparedness
A spokesperson for the Cabinet Office emphasized the government’s readiness:
“The UK Government has well-rehearsed plans in place for severe winter weather and is working with devolved governments, local authorities, emergency services, and other public bodies to coordinate the response to any disruption.”
Areas Affected
The red warning includes parts of Wales and the South West of England, with wind gusts potentially reaching dangerous speeds. Residents are urged to:
- Secure loose objects outdoors.
- Avoid non-essential travel during the warning period.
- Stay indoors and away from windows during high winds.
Key Advice
This unprecedented use of the Emergency Alert system aims to ensure that people in affected areas receive timely and potentially life-saving information. Residents are encouraged to follow the guidance provided in the alert and remain updated through official channels.
Further updates will follow as the situation develops.
