During the ongoing wildfires, officials in California have turned to emergency alerts to keep the public informed. This notification system plays a crucial role in conveying urgent information to residents using both iPhones and Android devices.
However, on Thursday evening, a wildfire evacuation alert was mistakenly sent to all residents in Los Angeles, despite the fact that it was intended only for specific areas.
Shortly after 4 p.m. PT, an emergency alert was dispatched to all users in Los Angeles County, instructing them to evacuate:
NEW: This is an emergency message from the Los Angeles County Fire Department. An EVACUATION has been issued in your area. Stay aware of potential threats and be prepared to evacuate. Collect your loved ones, pets, and necessary supplies. Keep monitoring local weather, news, and visit alertla.org for further details.
The alert quickly generated confusion on social media, with residents of LA County questioning its authenticity. About 20 minutes after the initial alert, Los Angeles County posted on X to clarify that the message was only meant for residents in Calabasas and Agoura Hills:
An evacuation order for those near the Kenneth Fire currently raging in West Hills was mistakenly sent to all County residents. This alert was intended solely for Calabasas and Agoura Hills residents.
After approximately 22 minutes, a follow-up emergency alert was sent out to all LA County residents stating: “Please disregard the previous evacuation warning. It was solely for the Kenneth Fire.”
As reported by CBS News, the error was attributed to a “technical glitch.” Officials are encouraging residents to check the LA County website for the latest updates concerning the wildfires.
This isn’t the first instance of a bogus emergency alert instigating panic. In 2018, residents in Hawaii were jolted awake by a frightening emergency alert on their iPhones regarding an incoming ballistic missile threat, which turned out to be the result of a failed “drill.”
Lead image via Elana
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