Rostov region switches to municipal sirens under new air threat alert system

Russia's Rostov region introduced a two-level system for missile and drone danger alerts on October 19, replacing the use of sirens across the entire region, Governor Yury Slyusar said.

At the first level, residents will receive SMS and push notifications without sirens being activated.

The second level calls for sirens in a specific municipality when a local danger alert is received. Reports of an air attack being repelled, air defence activity or drones in the air will also trigger consideration of local sirens. Municipal heads will make the decision.

Slyusar said a siren means an alert for everyone's attention. Residents should check smartphone notifications and listen to loudspeaker announcements for further instructions.

The previous procedure, in effect from October 8, called for sirens across the region during a missile or drone threat. Following the regional operational headquarters' decision to change the system, the governor instructed municipalities to explain the new rules. A common instruction leaflet has been prepared for residents.