HONOLULU (KHON2) — The Hawaiʻi Emergency Management Agency is alerting the public that the test alert sent shortly after 11 a.m. on June 13 was a routine procedure to ensure the functioning of their communications systems.
“There is no current threat to the state of Hawaiʻi,” the agency said in a statement. “This test was intended solely to validate our systems.”
According to HIEMA, these routine tests are important and help ensure that agencies throughout the islands are able to be properly prepared for disaster, even if the alerts can cause some worry.
“We understand that alerts can cause concerns,” the agency said. “However, we want to assure the community that this was a planned and harmless test.”
Ultimately, the alert system is at the benefit of Hawaiʻi residents, so they are prepared for the unknown.
“We are committed to keeping our kamaʻāina informed and safe,” HIEMA Administrator James Barros said. “The reliability of our emergency communication systems is critical, especially during times of crisis.”
For information on disaster preparation, visit HIEMA’s website.