Clime
← Back to Blog
Tips

Ensuring Critical Weather Alerts Override Do Not Disturb in 2026

June 18, 2026 · The Clime Team
Ensuring Critical Weather Alerts Override Do Not Disturb in 2026

In 2026, staying informed about severe weather is crucial, especially when your device is set to Do Not Disturb (DND) mode. Certain weather applications have implemented features that allow critical alerts to bypass DND settings, ensuring you receive timely notifications during emergencies.

What Are Critical Alerts?

Critical alerts are special notifications that can override your device's mute switch and DND settings. They are designed to deliver urgent information, such as severe weather warnings, even when your device is silenced. To receive these alerts, you must grant the app permission to send critical notifications.

How Do Weather Apps Implement Critical Alerts?

Weather applications utilize critical alerts to ensure users are promptly informed about severe weather conditions. For instance, the StormWatch+ app has been granted Critical Alerts status for its SW+ Alerts feature on iOS devices. This means that warnings requiring immediate action, like Tornado Warnings and Severe Thunderstorm Warnings, will override devices that are silenced, muted, or on DND, sending a loud "wake-me-up" audio tone. (cirrusweather.zendesk.com)

How to Enable Critical Alerts on Your Device

For iOS Devices:

  1. Open the Settings app.
  2. Scroll down and tap on the weather app (e.g., StormWatch+).
  3. Tap on Notifications.
  4. Toggle on Allow Critical Alerts.

For Android Devices:

  1. Open the Settings app.
  2. Navigate to Apps & notifications.
  3. Select the weather app.
  4. Tap on Notifications.
  5. For the critical alert channel, enable any setting labeled Ignore Do Not Disturb, Override Do Not Disturb, or similar. (supportcenter.everbridge.com)

Why Is This Important?

Enabling critical alerts ensures that you receive essential weather warnings, even when your device is set to DND. This feature is particularly vital during severe weather events, as it can provide life-saving information that might otherwise be missed.

Conclusion

By configuring your device to allow critical weather alerts to bypass DND settings, you can stay informed and prepared during severe weather events. Ensure that your chosen weather app supports this feature and that you have granted the necessary permissions.

Highlights:

Frequently Asked Questions