The IDF on Saturday issued an urgent clarification regarding the timing of the advance warning notification sometimes issued before sirens sound.
"The detection of barrages and launches is influenced by a variety of operational factors, and therefore it is not always possible to provide a long preparation time between the advance notification and the sirens," the IDF warned.
"At times, the notification may be received relatively close to the sirens. It is important to clarify that there are situations in which sirens may be sounded without a prior advance notification, depending on operational conditions."
The statement stressed, "The Home Front Command sends an advance notification to mobile phones in the relevant areas as early as possible, as part of its public warning policy. The advance notification is intended to allow civilians to prepare and reach the best protected areas in their vicinity."
"The IDF emphasizes that upon receiving the advance notification, civilians should improve their location to ensure optimal protection. If sirens are subsequently issued, civilians must immediately enter a protected area and remain there until a message announcing the end of the event is received."
The early warning is an additional alert measure, offered in addition to the official warning systems of the Home Front Command: the siren network, the Home Front Command mobile app, and the National Emergency Portal.