Are text messages (by cell phone or text pager) reliable for weather warnings ?
As with ANY device that depends on radio signals for proper operation, sometimes reliability can come into question. This will depend on YOUR cell phone or pager carrier. Regular e-mail from an Internet Service Provider (ISP) normally do not have this problem, as it is internet-based, subject to a reliable internet connection. Always keep in mind, if you sign up for text alerts to your cell phone (or like device), make ABSOLUTELY sure your device is text-enabled to receive such alerts. Check with your carrier to see if your device is text-enabled.
