Nationwide Test of Integrated Public Alert and Warning System Set for Oct. 4, 2023
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FEMA, in coordination with the Federal Communications Commission (FCC), will conduct a national test of the Integrated Public Alert and Warning System (IPAWS) on Wednesday, Oct. 4, 2023.
The national test will help ensure that Wireless Emergency Alerts (WEA) and the Emergency Alert System (EAS) continue to be effective ways to warn the public about emergencies, particularly those on the national level. The test will reach millions of mobile phones across the country via Wireless Emergency Alerts (WEA), radio and television via the Emergency Alert System (EAS), and other communication pathways. All major U.S. wireless providers participate in Wireless Emergency Alerts and will transmit the national test to their subscribers.
If your mobile phone is on and within range of an active cell tower from a participating wireless provider, you should receive the national test. Wireless providers will transmit the national test for 30 minutes, but your phone should only receive it once. Click here to see a list of frequently asked questions related to the national test.
This national test coincides with the City of Arlington’s monthly test of its outdoor warning siren system, which is scheduled for 1 p.m. Wednesday, Oct. 4, barring inclement weather. Click here to learn about the City’s Outdoor Warning Siren System.
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