Cyprus to conduct nationwide tsunami warning drill on November 10

On November 10, 2026, authorities in Cyprus will conduct a comprehensive tsunami warning exercise dubbed #NEAMWave26. The drill, which is part of the broader Mediterranean Tsunami Early Warning System, involves the activation of the 'CY Alert' mobile notification system. Individuals located in coastal areas across the island are expected to receive warning messages on their mobile phones as part of the simulation.

The exercise scenario is modeled after a historical 7.5 magnitude earthquake that occurred in Cyprus in 1222, which triggered a devastating tsunami. Beyond the digital alerts, authorities have intensified preparedness efforts, including the installation of informative warning signs in coastal cities such as Larnaca. These measures aim to enhance public awareness and response capabilities regarding the genuine, albeit infrequent, risk of seismic-driven waves in the Mediterranean region.

This initiative underscores Cyprus’s participation in regional cooperation to mitigate the impact of maritime natural disasters. The Department of Geological Survey emphasized that previous tsunamis have caused significant loss of life and property damage in the island's coastal ports and cities. The drill serves as a necessary test for national systems to ensure that communication channels remain effective in the event of an actual emergency.