IB-016 - Nationwide Emergency Alert System Test
FEMA and The FCC’s Upcoming Nationwide Test of Emergency Alert Systems
BLUF: On October 4th, around 1800z (2pm EST), FEMA and the FCC will conduct a nationwide test of the Wireless Emergency Alerts (WEA) and the Emergency Alert System (EAS). This test is crucial to ensure the systems' effectiveness in warning the public about potential emergencies. All major U.S. wireless providers will participate.
Key Points:
Scheduled Test Date: The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) in conjunction with the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has scheduled a nationwide test of various emergency alert systems for October 4, 2023.
Systems Under Test: The systems are designed to alert the public about imminent threats to safety in specific geographic areas. They can send out various alerts, including Presidential alerts, Imminent Threat alerts, Public Safety alerts, AMBER Alerts, and Opt-in Test Messages.
Wireless Emergency Alerts (WEA): This system will send a test alert to consumer cellular phones that meet the following criteria:
Turned on and not in airplane mode.
Within the coverage area of an active cell tower.
Subscribed to a provider participating in WEA testing.
Emergency Alert System (EAS): This test will last approximately one minute and will be broadcasted through television, radio, cable systems, weather radios, and satellite radio.
Purpose of the Test: The primary objective is to ensure the operational efficiency and effectiveness of the WEA and EAS in warning the public about potential emergencies. This is part of the Integrated Public Alert and Warning System (IPAWS) initiative.
Participation: All major U.S. wireless providers will be participating in this test. There is no need for the public to sign up or download any apps to receive these alerts.
Sources:
FEMA.gov
FCC.gov
Techspot.com