Nationwide Emergency Alert Test on Oct. 4, 2023 for Cell Phones, Wireless Devices, Radio and TV

On Wednesday, October 4, 2023 at 2:20 p.m. EST, there will be a national emergency alert test sent to cell phones, wireless devices, radios and TVs across the United States as part of testing for the Wireless Emergency Alerts and the Emergency Alert System. If backup testing is needed due to widespread severe weather or other significant events, the test will take place on October 11th.

Wireless providers will deliver a text message that is accompanied by a unique tone and vibration. The message will state, "THIS IS A TEST of the National Wireless Emergency Alert System. No action is needed." This test will be directed to all consumer cell phones. Although cell towers will broadcast the nationwide test for about 30 minutes, each cell phone will only receive the message just once.

Television and radio broadcasters will also deliver their test messages as part of the Emergency Alert System. The message they carry will be accompanied by a tone similar to what they use in their monthly tests. It will last about one minute.

The standard test of the Integrated Public Alert and Warning System (PAWS) is conducted by the Federal Emergency Management Agency in coordination with the Federal Communications Commission at least once every three years. No action is needed, says FEMA. The purpose of the test is to ensure that communications to warn the public about emergencies continue to be effective.