Warnings in Germany – NINA, Cell Broadcast and sirens
Germany does not have one single warning channel but many: phones, apps, sirens, radio, TV, loudspeaker vans and display boards. The safest approach is not to rely on just one.
Cell Broadcast: warnings without an app
The authorities can send warnings straight to all phones in a radio cell – no app, no registration. Not every older phone can receive them.
Since 25 November 2025 Cell Broadcast also sends all-clear messages. They go out at the lowest level, "danger information" (warning level 3). To get them, this level should be switched on in your phone's settings. Search your settings for "emergency alerts" or "wireless emergency alerts".
The NINA warning app
NINA is the federal government's warning app. It shows civil protection warnings, police warnings (since July 2025), severe weather warnings from the German Weather Service and flood information.
- You subscribe to places – your home, your work, your parents.
- Optionally NINA warns you for your current location. According to the BBK, your location stays on your device.
- You do not need to give any personal data.
Besides NINA, KATWARN, BIWAPP, the German Weather Service's WarnWetter app and some city apps also pass on official warnings.
The siren signals
- Warning – 1 minute of rising and falling tone: Get information at once from the radio, a warning app or TV.
- All clear – 1 minute of steady tone.
- Fire brigade alarm – 1 minute of steady tone with two breaks: not a public warning.
The nationwide warning day
Once a year, in September, the federal government, the states and local authorities test their warning systems together. It is a good reminder to check the settings on your phone.