UK national threat level raised to severe

Following the terrorism incidents in recent weeks, the Joint Terrorism Analysis Centre (JTAC) has taken the decision to raise the UK National Threat Level to SEVERE, meaning an attack is highly likely.

Threat levels are designed to give a broad indication of the likelihood of a terrorist attack.

• LOW means an attack is unlikely.
• MODERATE means an attack is possible, but not likely.
• SUBSTANTIAL means an attack is a strong possibility.
• SEVERE means an attack is highly likely.
• CRITICAL means an attack is expected imminently.

The level is set by JTAC along with the Security Service (MI5). Threat levels don’t have an expiry date. They can change at any time as different information becomes available to security agents.

Deputy Chief Constable Jason Harwin said: “It is vital that we remain alert and not alarmed as this National Threat Level is raised. The recent events that have taken place is a stark reminder that we must not be complacent, we must remain vigilant.

“We encourage the public to continue to report suspicious activity and urge anyone with information to come forward. We are monitoring the situation closely and will respond appropriately should any specific threat be identified.”

The UK was last at SEVERE in November 2020 before being lowered to SUBSTANTIAL in February 2021.