UPDATE: A public safety alert intended for South Pasadena was mistakenly broadcast to cellphones across Los Angeles County and beyond on Tuesday night, November 11, causing confusion among residents. The alert, sent at approximately 5:50 PM, declared, “This is a test of the South Pasadena WEA (Weather Emergency Alert) system. There is no emergency.”
Officials confirmed that the alert reached many cellphones throughout Los Angeles County, with reports of recipients as far away as Orange and San Luis Obispo counties, raising questions about the alert’s scope. Jennifer Colby, spokesperson for the City of South Pasadena, stated that public safety officials are investigating why the alert was disseminated so widely.
This incident follows a series of false alerts that have raised alarm within the community. Earlier this year, the Los Angeles County Fire Department sent multiple erroneous alerts during the devastating Eaton and Palisades fires. A report by U.S. Rep. Robert Garcia, D-Long Beach, revealed that a software malfunction caused one such alert, warning millions of residents about evacuations amid the Kenneth fire.
Authorities are now expressing concern regarding the potential for “alert fatigue.” Continuous false alarms may lead residents to ignore critical emergency notifications in the future. State legislators are actively considering the implementation of a state-run emergency alert system to prevent further incidents.
The South Pasadena incident highlights the urgent need for improved communication systems designed to keep communities informed and safe. As investigations continue, residents are reminded to stay vigilant and report any suspicious alerts to local officials.
This situation is developing, and updates will be provided as more information becomes available. Residents are encouraged to share this news to keep their communities informed.
