Published on: October 3, 2023
Prepare for an Unprecedented Test from FEMA
On October 4, 2023, at 2:20 PM, the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) will be conducting a nationwide test of the Emergency Alert System. This test aims to assess the effectiveness of both the Wireless Emergency Alerts (WEA) and the Emergency Alert System (EAS).
The WEA portion of the test will target all consumer cell phones, making it the second time cellular devices have been included in a nationwide test. The message received will depend on the language settings of the wireless handset, with options available in both English and Spanish. On the other hand, the EAS portion of the test will be transmitted via radios and televisions, representing the seventh nationwide EAS test.
The primary objective of this test is to ensure the systems continue to provide effective warnings to the public during national emergencies.
What You Should Expect from the WEA Test
During the test, cell towers will broadcast the message for approximately 30 minutes. Compatible wireless phones, within range of an active cell tower and enabled for WEA, will receive the test message. To enhance accessibility, the alerts will come with a unique tone and vibration. Specifics about the nationwide WEA test include:
- Start time: Approximately 2:20 p.m. ET
- Duration: Approximately 30 minutes
- Message on English phones: “THIS IS A TEST of the National Wireless Emergency Alert System. No action is needed.”
- Message on Spanish phones: “ESTA ES UNA PRUEBA del Sistema Nacional de Alerta de Emergencia. No se necesita acción.”
What You Should Expect from the EAS Test
- Start time: Approximately 2:20 p.m. ET
- Duration: Approximately 1 minute
- Channels: Radio and television broadcasters, cable systems, satellite radio and television providers, and wireline video providers
- Message: “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.”
For additional information, visit the following resources:
IPAWS 2023 National Test FAQs (fema.gov)
FEMA and FCC Plan Nationwide Emergency Alert Test for Oct. 4, 2023 | FEMA.gov
Emergency Alert System | FEMA.gov
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