Cyprus is carrying out a new SMS safety test to deliver protective instructions to citizens across all districts, following the first trial earlier this week.
Staggered test schedule
The Ministry of Interior confirmed the test will take place today, 6 March 2026, between 4:30 p.m. and 7 p.m., with messages sent according to the following schedule:
- Pre-paid subscribers (no registered address): 4:30 p.m.
- Paphos District: 5 p.m.
- Famagusta District: 5:30 p.m.
- Nicosia District: 6 p.m.
- Larnaca District: 6:30 p.m.
- Limassol District: 7 p.m.
Messages will indicate the district to which the alert applies. SMS are sent based on the subscriber’s registered address, not their current location. Subscribers without a registered address will receive a message regardless of district.
Purpose of the test
The trial aims to evaluate the system’s capacity to send a large number of messages in a short period. This temporary measure complements existing citizen alert systems until the full Early Warning System is launched in June 2026.
Citizen instructions
If citizens receive an SMS alert, they are advised to follow these protective measures:
- Move calmly on foot to a basement if available in the building or nearby.
- If indoors without a basement, stay inside, away from doors, windows, and glass.
- If outdoors, seek the nearest indoor location.
- In public infrastructures like schools, hospitals, and stadiums, follow the established safety protocol. Avoid travelling by vehicle to these locations.
- Remain in basements or indoor spaces until further instructions are issued by authorities, avoiding outdoor movement on foot or by vehicle.
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