HELSINKI, Oct. 28 (Xinhua) -- Finland is set to launch a new public warning system in November, allowing authorities to send emergency alerts directly to mobile phones in specific geographical areas, the Finnish Ministry of the Interior announced Wednesday.
The new system, called FI-Alert, will use cell broadcast technology to deliver warnings instantly to 4G and 5G mobile phones connected to mobile networks in affected areas. Users will not need to download an app or register for the service, and foreign visitors will also be able to receive alerts.
"It is very important that we will be able to warn the public more quickly, reach more people and target warnings to specific areas," Interior Minister Mari Rantanen said.
Authorities can issue emergency warnings when a situation threatens life or health, or risks causing significant property damage. The new system is designed to improve the speed, coverage and reliability of public warnings during accidents, emergencies and other dangerous situations.
FI-Alert will complement rather than replace Finland's existing warning channels, including mobile apps, radio and television broadcasts, and public warning sirens. The ministry stressed that multiple channels remain essential to ensuring reliable communication during emergencies.
The rollout comes amid heightened concerns over airborne threats. Finnish national broadcaster Yle reported that the need for a new warning system had grown following incidents involving warhead-carrying drones straying into Finnish airspace. ■