Cyprus will launch its new public early‑warning system, CY‑Alert, on June 2, officials said Tuesday.
Interior Minister Constantinos Ioannou and Deputy Minister for Research, Innovation and Digital Policy Nikodimos Damianou said the system will send real‑time alerts to mobile phones in Cyprus during threats to life, safety or public order.
Authorities said the alerts will reach users without an internet connection or any installed app, regardless of mobile provider or the country of origin of the SIM card. Messages will override a phone’s silent mode.
Test alerts in Greek and English will be issued over the next three weeks. They will include a distinctive sound and strong vibration and will be clearly marked as drills.
To receive the alerts, users must update their devices to the latest Android or iOS software.
Each message will outline the hazard or emergency and give clear instructions for protection or evacuation.