Full Notification

The monthly test of the Outdoor Siren Warning System and the Emergency Alert System is scheduled for TODAY, 12-01-2025, at 11:45 AM.

What Happens During the Monthly Test? 

During this monthly test, all Statewide Outdoor Warning Sirens will sound a one-minute Attention Alert Signal, which sounds like a long steady tone. 

Along with the siren test, if you are watching TV or listening to radio you will hear a simultaneous test of the Emergency Alert System, conducted in cooperation with Hawaiʻi’s broadcast industry.

What if the Siren in My Area Doesn't Sound During the Monthly Test? 

If a siren located in your area fails to sound during the scheduled test time, let the Department of Emergency Management (DEM) know by submitting an online Oahu Outdoor Warning Siren Report. You can also use this same form to let DEM know that the siren test in your area was successful. You may also call DEM at (808) 723-8960 to make a report.

If I Hear a Siren Outside of the Monthly Test, What Am I Supposed to Do? 

If you hear a siren at any other time aside from the monthly test, it means that you should tune in right away to local radio or television to get official emergency information or instructions.

If you ever hear a siren but don't see or hear any emergency information when you turn on local TV or radio, call 911 to make a report and verify there is no emergency. Though it does not happen often, it is possible a siren has malfunctioned.

How Else Will I Be Alerted to Urgent Emergency Situations? 

The Outdoor Siren Warning System is one part of Hawaiʻi’s Statewide Alert & Warning System, which is used to notify the public during emergency situations when there is an immediate threat to public safety. In addition to the sirens, the Statewide Alert & Warning System includes:

• Emergency Alert System (EAS): Used by government officials to broadcast urgent instructions and information from emergency officials to the public via local TV and radio stations. When you hear a siren and tune into local TV or radio for more information, that information is delivered using the EAS.
• Wireless Emergency Alerts (WEA): Used by government officials to deliver text-like messages to mobile devices when there is an imminent threat to safety in the area. These messages can be targeted geographically, so depending on the hazard messages can be delivered to a large geographic area, such as the entire island of Oahu, or targeted to only alert people in the town or area closest to the emergency. You do not need to sign up for this service; you will automatically receive these alerts to your mobile phone. 

How Else Can I Stay Informed? 

The Statewide Emergency Alert & Warning System is only used when there is an imminent threat to safety that requires immediate notification of the public. Oahu residents are encouraged to register for the HNL Alert system to receive text, email and push notifications via mobile app. Users will not only receive urgent emergency information, but can sign up to receive weather messages and other City notifications on topics such as road closures, drinking water system notifications and ocean safety notices. Got to http://hnlalert.gov to sign up.

Where Can I Find Other Information that Will Help Me Prepare for Emergencies? 

Use the monthly siren test as your reminder to be prepared for emergencies or disaster. Visit www.honolulu.gov/dem for more information and hazards you should be aware of and readiness tips.