Lithuania to test national emergency alert system with three-minute siren drill
Lithuania will conduct a nationwide test of its emergency warning system on Thursday, with sirens sounding for three minutes starting at 11:52 AM, the Fire Protection and Rescue Department (PAGD) announced via state news agency ELTA.
Alongside the sirens, residents will receive alert messages on mobile devices through the LT72 app and emergency notifications. Authorities emphasize that the drill is routine and does not indicate a real threat. Upon hearing the sirens or receiving an alert, the public is advised to tune into Lithuanian radio or television for further instructions—standard procedure in an actual emergency.
Mobile alerts will be sent to all users, but only devices with the emergency notification function enabled will receive them. Residents are encouraged to check their phone settings in advance and activate the feature if needed. Detailed instructions are available on the lt72.lt website and in the LT72 app.
After the test, the public is asked to report any issues—such as not receiving notifications—via a survey on the same website. “Feedback helps us identify problem areas and resolve them quickly,” the PAGD stated.
System improvements and future plans
The warning system is designed to rapidly inform the public of threats to life, health, or property, requiring regular testing. While Lithuania typically conducts two such drills annually, additional tests may be scheduled as needed—three were performed last year alone.
“The system must function flawlessly when it matters most,” said PAGD Director Renatas Požėla. “Each test helps us pinpoint weaknesses and ensure timely alerts during real emergencies.”
During the last siren test in December 2025, 2.6% of the 1,160 sirens activated nationwide failed to operate, down from 5.4% in the prior test—a sign of progress. Currently, the system covers about 69% of the population. Expansion efforts, including new installations, upgrades, and centralized control, aim to extend coverage to 75% by 2029.