Test emergency text at 7pm on Wednesday

The government on Wednesday issued new self-protection guidance and announced the launch of a nationwide mass SMS alert system, urging residents to remain calm and vigilant.

A test message will be sent to all mobile telephone users at around 7pm on Wednesday.

Speaking at a press conference, interior minister Constantinos Ioannou said the system will allow authorities to send rapid written warnings to all mobile phones in Cyprus, providing timely instructions during potential security incidents.