Emergency alert test coming to B.C. phones, radio, TV on Wednesday
Posted November 17, 2025 5:09 pm.
Last Updated November 18, 2025 9:35 am.
The BC Emergency Alert system will be tested later this week.
A test of the National Public Alerting System will interrupt radio and television broadcasts and temporarily take over compatible cellphones around B.C. on Wednesday, Nov. 19 at 1:55 p.m.
The province says cellphones will receive an alarm tone and a message with text similar the following:
“This is a TEST of the Emergency Alert system. This is ONLY a TEST. In an emergency, this message would tell you what to do to stay safe. This information could save your life. This is ONLY a TEST. No action is required.“
Launched in April of 2018, the BC Emergency Alert system is tested twice a year in spring and fall.
“This test will assess the system’s readiness for an emergency and identify any required adjustments,” the province says.
Other similar interruptions include Amber Alerts, issued by police, and Early Earthquake Warning system, launched in B.C. last year.
TV broadcasts, including CityNews, and radio broadcasts, including 1130 NewsRadio, will be affected. You can watch CityNews 24/7 live or listen live to 1130 NewsRadio Vancouver online if you don’t want to miss a moment.
