FEMA, FCC test Emergency Alert System

Inkspot Staff • Oct 4, 2023

FEMA

FEMA and the FCC will issue a joint test of the nation’s emergency alert systems — testing the ability to deliver communications to all cellular devices and via radio and television.

WASHINGTON – The Federal Emergency Management Agency, in coordination with the Federal Communications Commission, will test the nation’s Emergency Alert System and Wireless Emergency Alerts Wednesday, Oct 4, at 1:20 p.m.

This nationwide test will encompass two segments, examining the capabilities of both WEA and EAS systems, essential means of communication during emergencies.

During the WEA test, cell towers will broadcast to all wireless phones with WEA compatibility that are powered on, and within range of an active cell tower. Those phones will receive the following test message: “THIS IS A TEST of the National Wireless Emergency Alert System. No action is needed.”

For phones set to Spanish, the message will display: “ESTA ES UNA PRUEBA del Sistema Nacional de Alerta de Emergencia. No se necesita acción.”

To ensure accessibility for all, including individuals with disabilities, the alerts are accompanied by a unique tone and vibration.

Cell phones that are powered off at the time of the test will receive the message when they are turned back on.

The test marks the second time cell phones will receive the nationwide alert.

Radios and televisions will be the recipients of the EAS portion of the test. The primary goal of the test is to ensure that these systems remain effective in warning the public about emergencies, especially on a national scale.

The message will resemble the regular monthly EAS test messages and will state, “This is a nationwide test of the Emergency Alert System, issued by the Federal Emergency Management Agency, covering the United States from 14:20 to 14:50 hours ET. This is only a test. No action is required by the public.”

The EAS segment of the test is expected to last approximately one minute.

In the event of severe weather or significant events that could affect the scheduled test, Oct. 11 has been designated as backup date.

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