New Survey Finds Preparedness Gap: Most Americans Rely on Smartphones for Severe Weather Alerts, Yet Nearly 1 in 3 Have No Backup Alerting Method

New Midland survey reveals growing reliance on smartphones for weather alerts while highlighting the importance of backup alerting solutions during National Preparedness Month.

KANSAS CITY, Mo., Sept. 1, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Midland, a leader in weather and emergency alert technology, released findings from its new national survey highlighting how Americans prepare for weather emergencies. Conducted ahead of National Preparedness Month, it found that while smartphones have become the primary source of weather information for many Americans, millions remain vulnerable when power and communications systems fail.

As severe weather events continue to impact communities across the country, the findings reveal a disconnect between Americans' confidence in their emergency preparedness and the safeguards they actually have in place. According to the survey, 61% of Americans are completely or mostly dependent on smartphones for severe weather alerts, while nearly half receive alerts through mobile weather apps. At the same time, 29% reported having no backup way to receive urgent warnings if power and cellular service become unavailable during an emergency.

Power outages, damaged cell towers and network congestion can limit access to information or delay the delivery of emergency alerts when they are needed most. NOAA Weather Radio, which delivers official warnings from the National Weather Service, does not depend on cellular service or internet connectivity and can serve as an important source of emergency information when other communication channels are unavailable.

"Smartphones have made weather information more accessible than ever, but they shouldn't be the only tool people rely on during an emergency," said Kevin Knipp, CEO of Midland. "When severe weather strikes, power outages and communication disruptions can happen quickly. Having a backup source for life-saving alerts can make a meaningful difference when every minute counts."

The survey also revealed a gap between how prepared Americans feel and the actions they take to prepare. Despite high levels of confidence, many households have not taken fundamental preparedness steps:

• 72% are confident they could stay informed during a prolonged power outage.
• 37% believe they are more prepared than others in their community.
• 36% do not have an emergency plan.
• 29% have not taken a single preparedness action in the past year.
• Only 22% have a written emergency plan.

The research also found that NOAA Weather Radio remains one of the most trusted alerting resources among users, despite relatively low awareness. Only 45% of respondents said they are familiar with NOAA Weather Radio. Among those who use it, 72% trust it more than other alert sources, and 92% consider it important during severe weather events.

"One of the clearest takeaways from this research is that preparedness starts before a warning is issued," Knipp added. "Whether it's building an emergency kit, creating a family plan or adding a NOAA Weather Radio to your preparedness strategy, small steps taken today can help families stay informed and safe when severe weather threatens."

As part of National Preparedness Month, Midland is encouraging consumers to take proactive steps by offering 20% off select weather and emergency radios throughout September, including the WR120 NOAA Weather Alert Radio and ER310 PRO Emergency Crank NOAA Weather Radio, as well as other essential weather radios. The promotion is designed to help families build reliable backup alerting and emergency communication plans before severe weather strikes.

For more information about Midland and its emergency weather communication solutions, please visit www.midlandusa.com.

About Midland 

A leader in communication solutions for over 50 years, Midland has transformed the way people stay connected. From introducing the first CB radios in the United States to being at the forefront of two-way radios, as well as weather and emergency alert technology, the company is committed to innovation, safety, reliability and efficiency. Located in Kansas City, the heart of the Midwest, Midland's easy-to-use radios ensure exceptional communication access for everyone, keeping families, friends, and professionals connected, while their top-of-the-line weather and emergency radios empower preparedness during critical situations. For more information, visit www.midlandusa.com.   

SOURCE Midland