Wed Sep 25 04:08:49 UTC 2024: ## False Tsunami Warning Sent to Half of Australia

**Brisbane, Australia** – The Bureau of Meteorology (BOM) has issued an apology after mistakenly sending a tsunami warning to half of Australia on Wednesday. The false alert, which included tsunami watch warnings for Tasmania, New South Wales, Victoria, and Queensland, was sent via the BOM app, third-party weather apps, and social media platform X.

The BOM confirmed the notification was a test, part of a transition to new warning software, and was immediately canceled after being sent. However, many users, including ABC Radio Brisbane listener Cain, did not initially notice the “test” marking at the top and bottom of the notification.

“It’s given me a good practice run for if something does happen,” said Cain, who received the push notification around midday.

Queensland state disaster coordinator Shane Chelepy acknowledged the alert was unfortunate and should not have been sent, noting the “test” labeling could have been clearer.

“Within 20 minutes of that alert going out, I’m advised BOM issued another alert advising that it was in fact a test and that there was no threat to the community,” Chelepy stated.

The BOM emphasized the importance of testing its warning systems in preparation for real tsunami threats. The Bureau is part of the Joint Australian Tsunami Warning Centre (JATWC), which operates 24/7 to detect, monitor, verify, and warn of potential tsunami threats to Australia and its territories.

Despite the mishap, the BOM assured the public that there is no current tsunami threat to Australia.

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