Patna: Thousands of mobile phone users across Bihar received sudden emergency alerts on Thursday morning as authorities issued warnings of thunderstorms, rain, lightning and strong winds in several districts.
Many users reported their phones vibrating loudly and displaying warning messages despite being on silent mode. The alerts, however, were not caused by any technical fault or malfunction.
The notifications were issued under the Government of India’s Emergency Alert System, which enables disaster-related warnings to be sent directly to mobile devices.
Alert Sent Ahead of Adverse Weather
The alerts were triggered as weather conditions began deteriorating across parts of the state. Several areas, including Patna, witnessed rainfall accompanied by strong winds on Thursday morning.
Authorities sent the notifications in advance to ensure that residents received timely information about potentially hazardous weather conditions.
Users who received the alert may have seen messages such as “Extremely Severe Alert” accompanied by a loud alarm tone and strong vibration.
How the System Works
The warning messages are transmitted through Cell Broadcast Technology, a system used by the Government of India and the India Meteorological Department (IMD) to communicate emergency information directly to the public.
The technology allows authorities to quickly reach large numbers of people during severe weather events, natural disasters and other emergency situations.
Unlike regular text messages, cell broadcast alerts can override silent mode settings to ensure critical information is not missed.
What Residents Should Do
Authorities have advised people to carefully read any emergency alerts received on their phones and follow the instructions provided.
During thunderstorms or lightning activity, residents should avoid open fields, trees and electric poles. People are also advised to remain indoors and avoid unnecessary travel until weather conditions improve.
No Need to Panic
Officials have clarified that sudden vibrations or warning messages linked to weather alerts do not indicate any problem with a mobile phone.
Instead, they confirm that the device has successfully received an official emergency notification intended to help residents stay safe during adverse weather conditions.
