LeipzigInternational: The First English-Language Warning Broadcast in German Radio

When the Siren Isn’t Enough

This initiative sets a new standard: RadioUKWplus – LeipzigInternational now broadcasts official warning messages every hour on the hour for the city and district of Leipzig, along with a summary of nationwide alerts. What makes it unique: the warnings are read in English. Clear, accessible, and direct. For those who might otherwise be left out—international guests, expats, students, and anyone simply listening to the radio. In the kebab shop. In the taxi. In the corner store. In the hostel.

Kallista Plumleigh speaks plainly

The voice behind this format is Kallista Plumleigh. As the vitual English-speaking news host of RadioUKWplus – LeipzigInternational, she delivers the current warning messages every hour—reliably, editorially curated, and linguistically accessible. It’s a service that hasn’t existed in Leipzig until now—and quite possibly nowhere else in Germany.

Why the phone isn’t enough

Warning apps require active use. They only work if installed, understood, and regularly checked. But the Modular Warning System (MoWaS) offers no official English-language alerts. Those who don’t speak German are left out. Radio, on the other hand, reaches everyone—even passively. And in places where people work, eat, or wait together, it’s often the only medium that informs and connects at the same time.

Editorial clarity over automation

The warning messages come directly from the MoWaS system of the Federal Office of Civil Protection and Disaster Assistance. They are editorially processed, translated into English, and read aloud by Kallista Plumleigh every hour. A human editorial process that brings clarity.

A model for the future

RadioUKWplus demonstrates how warning communication can be inclusive—linguistically, technically, and editorially. What begins in Leipzig today could become a blueprint for tomorrow across Germany. Because safety should never be hindered by language. And sometimes, a voice on the radio is worth more than any push notification.

Tune in and listen to LeipzigInternational