Between 1:20 PM and 1:50 PM on October 4, 2023, cellular towers will transmit the WEA test for approximately 30 minutes. Please be aware that your phone will emit a sound for about 1 minute, and it should only sound once during this test period.
The EAS portion of the test will be sent to radios and televisions. This will be the seventh nationwide EAS test.
What is the WEA (Wireless Emergency Alert) system?
The WEA system is a public safety initiative that enables individuals using cell phones and other mobile devices to receive location-specific, text-style notifications regarding safety threats in their area.
Why is this test taking place?
FEMA is mandated to conduct WEA system tests every three years to assess updates and incorporate new technologies into the WEA system.
Notes from FEMA
- Beginning at approximately 1:20 p.m. CT, cell towers will broadcast the test for approximately 30 minutes. During this time, WEA-compatible wireless phones that are switched on, within range of an active cell tower, and whose wireless provider participates in WEA, should be capable of receiving the test message.
- For consumers, the message that appears on their phones will read: “THIS IS A TEST of the National Wireless Emergency Alert System. No action is needed.”
- Phones with the main menu set to Spanish will display: “ESTA ES UNA PRUEBA del Sistema Nacional de Alerta de Emergencia. No se necesita acción.”
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