Given the bouts of wild weather we've been having, we thought it would be prudent to make this public service announcement regarding the planned Emergency Drill Sirens which will sound off this weekend.

It's all part of a citywide awareness exercise that happens annually. This is part of Shanghai's National Defense Education Day, a public safety drill designed to familiarize residents with emergency systems and preparedness.

The city has been conducting this drill for 17 years, and it's a regular part of life here.

When Will the Sirens Sound?

From 11:35am to 11:58am, the sirens will sound in three intervals, but rest assured: there's no emergency. For those of us just going about our usual weekend routine, no action is needed. If you're anywhere near the city's airports, you might not hear anything at all, as those zones are excluded from the drill.

It might be a good idea to keep an eye on kids or elderly family members who might be startled by the noise.

There are Events Planned This Weekend to Coincide w/the Drills:

In addition to the sirens, there will be several community activities taking place across the city to raise awareness about safety, preparedness, and how Shanghai's emergency systems work. Columbia Circle in Changning District, a popular spot for both locals and expats, will host the main event this year. For the first time, the city is blending indoor and outdoor activities, with VR experiences that allow visitors to explore safety preparedness in a fun, interactive way. It's a great opportunity for families to get involved and for expats to learn more about local practices in a relaxed environment.

Fun fact: Shanghai is one of the few cities that's codified this practice into local law. That means these sirens will keep sounding each year like clockwork. So if you've just moved here or this is your first September in town, now you know what all the noise is about.

Want to Check Out the Events?

Here's the address for Columbia Circle:

1262 Yan'an Rd W., near Panyu Rd. Or just type "Columbia Circle" into Didi. You'll land at the right place.