Germany’s Annual Warning Day: What to Expect on ‘Warntag’?
Germany’s annual warning day, known as Warntag, is scheduled to take place on Thursday, September 12th, at 11 a.m. This nationwide event serves as a test for the country’s emergency warning systems to ensure they are functioning properly in the event of a disaster. These could include floods, major power outages, or cyber and military attacks. Here is what to expect on ‘Warntag’.
Purpose of the Warning Day
The Warntag, held on the second Thursday of September each year, is a coordinated exercise involving the federal government, states, districts, and municipalities. During this event, various warning systems will be tested, including approximately 38,000 sirens across the country. The Federal Office of Civil Protection and Disaster Assistance (BBK) activates the sirens at 11 a.m. sharp.
How Warnings Will Be Issued?
In addition to sirens, warnings will be broadcast through multiple channels, including apps such as NINA and KATWARN, radio and television stations, and around 6,600 digital display boards controlled by the BBK. Train services will also provide announcements during the event.
One of the more modern components of the warning system is the cell broadcast, which allows smartphone users to receive warning messages even if they haven’t downloaded any apps or signed up for specific services. This system requires only a mobile network connection and is independent of SMS or internet usage. Most smartphones will display a pop-up alert unless the device’s software is outdated. The event will conclude by 11:45 a.m.
What to Expect?
If you live in an area particularly prone to disaster events, you may hear sirens or announcements from loudspeaker vehicles. However, in most cities, sirens have been dismantled since the end of the Cold War due to the high cost of maintenance. For example, Bavaria currently has around 10,000 sirens, mostly owned by local authorities, while North Rhine-Westphalia operates around 6,150 sirens. In regions without sirens, emergency services will rely on loudspeaker vehicles for announcements. Efforts are ongoing to repair or build new sirens through dedicated funding programs.
Why Warntag Is Necessary?
The importance of such warning systems became evident during the 2021 flood disaster in Rhineland-Palatinate and North Rhine-Westphalia, when residents were not alerted in time to the impending danger. This led to widespread criticism and eventually, the introduction of the cell broadcast system.
Amidst concerns about war in Europe, the need for an efficient nationwide warning system is more critical than ever. The first Warntag took place in 2020 but faced criticism for not being effective enough.
Frequency of Nationwide Warnings in Germany
While nationwide trial alerts are not common in Germany, localized warnings are issued for events like forest fires. In comparison to other countries, Germany conducts fewer trial alerts. For example, the Netherlands, with a similar density of sirens, tests its system monthly.
Germany’s Warntag is a vital step toward improving disaster preparedness and ensuring the safety of its citizens in emergency situations.
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