Washington, D.C. – Oct. 4, 2023
In collaboration with the Federal Communications Commission (FCC), the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) is set to conduct a nationwide test of the Emergency Alert System (EAS) and Wireless Emergency Alerts (WEA) this fall. This is part of our ongoing efforts to ensure the effectiveness of emergency communication systems and keep citizens informed during critical situations.
What to Expect
The national test will take place on Wednesday, October 4, at approximately 2:20 p.m. ET. It will consist of two components: the WEA and EAS capabilities.
Wireless Emergency Alerts (WEA):
- The WEA portion will be sent to all consumer cell phones, making it the second test to include all cellular devices.
- The test message will appear in either English or Spanish, based on the language settings of your mobile device.
- The message will read: “THIS IS A TEST of the National Wireless Emergency Alert System. No action is needed.” For Spanish language settings: “ESTA ES UNA PRUEBA del Sistema Nacional de Alerta de Emergencia. No se necesita acción.”
- The test will last approximately 30 minutes, and your cell phone should receive the message only once if it’s switched on, within range of an active cell tower, and your wireless provider participates in WEA.
Emergency Alert System (EAS):
- The EAS portion will be broadcasted to radios and televisions.
- This marks the seventh nationwide EAS test.
- The test message will be similar to the regular monthly EAS test messages, stating: “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.”
Why This Test Matters
The primary goal of the October 4 test is to ensure that these alert systems remain effective means of warning the public about emergencies, particularly those of national significance. In the event of widespread severe weather or other significant events, the backup testing date is set for October 11.
FEMA and the FCC are working closely with EAS participants, wireless providers, emergency managers, and other stakeholders to minimize any confusion and maximize the public safety value of this test.
How It Works
The WEA portion of the test will be initiated using FEMA’s Integrated Public Alert and Warning System (IPAWS), which allows authorities to send authenticated emergency messages to the public through multiple communication networks. The WEA test will be administered via a code sent to cell phones.
This year, the EAS message will be disseminated as a Common Alerting Protocol (CAP) message via the Integrated Public Alert and Warning System-Open Platform for Emergency Networks (IPAWS-OPEN).
Accessibility and Public Safety
WEA alerts are created and sent by authorized federal, state, local, tribal, and territorial government agencies through IPAWS to participating wireless providers, which then deliver the alerts to compatible handsets in geo-targeted areas. To ensure accessibility for all, including individuals with disabilities, these alerts are accompanied by a unique tone and vibration.
Stay Informed
We encourage all citizens to be aware of this nationwide test and to share this information with friends and family. Your participation in this test helps us improve our emergency communication systems and ensures that they are ready to serve you when it matters most.
Thank you for your cooperation and understanding as we work to enhance the safety and well-being of our communities.