A technical error caused every smartphone in Los Angeles County to receive a wildfire evacuation alert intended only for residents near the Kenneth Fire in West Hills. The evacuation notice was mistakenly sent to the entire county, affecting over 9 million residents. Many received the alert despite being far from the danger zones, leading to confusion and panic, especially as it interrupted a live broadcast. LA County officials acknowledged the mistake and promised a correction. Such errors in emergency notifications can heighten anxiety during critical situations like wildfires.