Lithuania postpones national emergency alert system test due to school exams

The Lithuanian Fire and Rescue Department (PAGD) has cancelled a planned test of the national emergency warning and notification system that was scheduled for April 2, citing potential disruptions to state graduation exams taking place the same day.

A new date for the test will be announced in the near future, according to a PAGD statement.

Lithuania’s emergency alert system, designed to warn the public of threats to life, health, or property, is routinely tested twice a year, though additional checks may be conducted if needed. The last test in December 2025 activated around 1,160 sirens nationwide, with a 2.6% failure rate—an improvement from the previous 5.4%.

The country currently operates 1,163 sirens, covering approximately 69% of the population. Expansion plans aim to increase coverage to 75% by 2029 through new installations, upgrades, and centralised control systems.

In the event of an alert, residents are advised to tune into Lithuanian radio or television for further instructions. Emergency notifications are sent to all mobile devices, but only those with the alert function enabled will receive them. Activation instructions are available at lt72.lt and via the LT72 mobile app.