National Terrorism Advisory System ( NTAS) alerts communicate information about terrorist threats by providing timely, detailed information to the public, government agencies, first responders, public sector organizations, airports and other transportation hubs.

Using available information, the alerts will provide a concise summary of the potential threat, information about actions being taken to ensure public safety, and recommended steps that individuals, communities, businesses and governments can take to help prevent, mitigate or respond to the threat.

Clear statements of an imminent or elevated threat

The National Terrorism Advisory System (NTAS) website is the authoritative source for information about the current NTAS level.  It will always contain the most up-to-date information on the Advisory System status.

NTAS Alerts will only be issued when credible information is available.  After reviewing the available information, the Secretary of Homeland Security will decide, in coordination with other Federal entities, whether an NTAS Alert should be issued.

The NTAS Alerts will be based on the nature of the threat: in some cases, alerts will be sent directly to law enforcement or affected areas of the private sector, while in others, alerts will be issued more broadly to the American people through both official and media channels.

These alerts will include a clear statement that there is an imminent threat or elevated threat.

• An imminent threat warns of a credible, specific, and impending terrorist threat against the United States.
• An elevated threat warns of a credible terrorist threat against the United States.

NTAS Alerts contain a sunset provision indicating a specific date when the alert expires - there will not be a constant NTAS Alert or blanket warning that there is an overarching threat. If threat information changes for an alert, the Secretary of Homeland Security may announce an updated NTAS Alert. All changes, including the announcement that cancels an NTAS Alert, will be distributed the same way as the original alert.

• View current NTAS Alerts and archived copies of expired alerts
• Frequently Asked Questions
• NTAS Public Guide
• Sample NTAS Alert
• Print Materials
• Developer Resources

Hear About Alerts Through our Website or Social Media Channels

NTAS is built on a clear and simple premise: When a threat develops that could impact you – the public – we will tell you. We will provide whatever information we can so you know how to protect yourselves, your families, and your communities.

For Americans, this will mean some visible changes. You won’t hear the old color-code announcements when you go to airports, or see them when you visit a government website. Instead, when a threat arises that could affect you and your family, you will hear about it through an NTAS Alert issued by DHS through official channels, such as the NTAS Alerts Page, the news media, and via social media channels such as Facebook and Twitter.

Other Types of Alerts

Travel alerts and warnings are maintained by the U.S. Department of State and are a resource for international travelers to consider for safe travel overseas. Learn more here.

Additional Information

• FEMA - National Response Framework
• Department of Justice - Joint Terrorism Task Force