Cyprus to Accelerate Implementation of Emergency Alert System Following Floods in Spain

In light of the deadly rains and floods in Spain that resulted in over 150 fatalities, the Cypriot authorities have decided to expedite the introduction of an early warning system for emergencies, integrating it with the 112 emergency service. Cyprus is among the last European nations to adopt such a mechanism.

Currently, Cyprus lacks an early warning system for emergencies. The tender for the installation of this system is expected to be announced in December of the following year.

“The system will be able to send early warning messages directly to mobile phone users,” promised Interior Minister Constantinos Ioannou.

In April 2023, the government assured that the emergency alert system via mobile phones would be operational by the beginning of 2024. The plan was for notifications to automatically display on citizens' mobile screens without needing to open a message. However, this implementation has been delayed as authorities have been working to ensure compatibility with the emergency number 112.

“We also had to accommodate the 112 number, which required us to complete all necessary procedures to ensure that the two systems can work together. We are currently finalizing some details in the documentation and will soon re-issue the tender,” said Panayotis Liassidis, spokesperson for Civil Defense, as reported by Alphanews.

Until all procedures are finalized, citizens will be alerted to emergencies through sirens or door-to-door visits.