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Nationwide Emergency Alert System Test Scheduled For Wednesday

There will be a nationwide test of the Emergency Alert System at approximately 2:20 p.m. Wednesday by tThe Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) in coordination with the Federal Communications Commission (FCC).

FEMA video about the Emergency Alert System

Photo Credit: FEMA

The purpose of the test is to ensure that the EAS remains an effective means of warning the public about emergencies. Periodic testing of public alert and warning systems helps to assess the operational readiness of alerting infrastructure, and to identify any needed technological and administrative improvements.

FEMA will administer the nationwide test, in cooperation with the FCC and National Weather Service, and with the participation of broadcast TV, radio, cable, satellite, wireline video, and other service providers, known as “EAS participants.” After the test, EAS participants are required to file reports with the FCC, which the agency will analyze to determine how the test performed.

FEMA’s nationwide test message will be similar to regular monthly EAS test messages, in that the public should receive both audio and on-screen text conveying that it is only a test. The nationwide test message language will differ slightly as it will say, “This is a national test of the Emergency Alert System. This is only a test.” 

The test message will be transmitted in both English and Spanish, with EAS participants deciding which version to use for their communities. The test is intended to last approximately one minute.

For more information on Wednesday's test from FEMA, click here.

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