The way that National Weather Service messages will be delivered is changing. This is due to carriers deprecating SMTP. This article provides details and updates to the notification that was sent on 5/20/2025.
What’s Changing
Beginning in mid-June 2025, several major wireless carriers will discontinue support for email-to-text (SMTP) message delivery. As a result, messages sent through this method will no longer reach mobile devices. Additionally, new carrier regulations now require residents to provide explicit opt-in consent to continue receiving weather alerts via SMS.
How We’re Responding
Our system has historically used SMTP gateways as a cost-effective way to deliver automated weather alerts to residents who opted in. To ensure uninterrupted delivery of critical weather notifications, we are updating our system to align with the new industry standards:
- SMS Delivery for Warnings: On June 16th the Standard Automated Weather alert offering will be upgraded to deliver National Weather Service Warnings via SMS to affected residents via the Konexus short code (38276).
(Note: If your contract includes SMS usage limits, these alerts will count towards your SMS allotment.) - Alternative Channels for Watches: Watch-level alerts and general weather notifications will be delivered via the myAlerts app, email, and integrations with your organization’s social media accounts.
- One-Time SMS Opt-In Confirmation: Konexus will be automatically handling the transition from SMTP Texting to SMS messaging using our short code (38276). This transition requires us to obtain consent through an opt-in flow to ensure compliance with Wireless Carrier requirements and the Telephone Consumer Protection Act (TCPA).
- Changes to Public Signup pages: Public Signup pages will be updated to better communicate the new Weather Severity choices/options to residents.
We remain committed to supporting your public safety efforts and ensuring your residents continue to receive timely, life-saving weather alerts.
No action is required at this time. If your subscription or integration settings need to be updated or if you have questions, please contact our Customer Support Team.