Hold onto your smartphones, folks! This Wednesday at 2:20 pm ET, a symphony of alerts will resonate across the nation. The U.S. federal government is all set to conduct a nationwide test of its Emergency Alert System (EAS) and Wireless Emergency Alerts (WEA). Their mission? To ensure that when the phone alarm bells ring, we’re all ready and informed.

Why Everyone’s Phone Will Sound an Alarm

The EAS part of this mega-test will send out a blast across all radios and televisions, ensuring the broadcast waves are primed for action. But wait, there’s more – the WEA segment will fire alerts directly to all our trusty cell phones.

“The purpose of the Oct. 4 test is to ensure that the systems continue to be effective means of warning the public about emergencies, particularly those on the national level,” declares the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), which is spearheading this test alongside the Federal Communication Commission (FCC).

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The Impact on You

Exactly at 2:20 pm ET this Wednesday, your phone will light up and buzz with a message.

“THIS IS A TEST of the National Wireless Emergency Alert System. No action is needed.”

The message will be sent in either English or Spanish, depending on your device’s language settings. Plus, there will be a unique tone and vibration accompanying the text. This is to make sure everyone’s in the know, including those with disabilities.

For about 30 minutes, starting at 9:20 pm EAT, cell towers across the nation will broadcast the test. If your phone’s on, in range of an active cell tower, and your wireless provider participates in WEA tests – boom! You’re part of the action.

Radios and TVs will join the party, too. They will be broadcasting a test emergency alert at the same moment. It’s a one-minute shout-out:

“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.”

The bottom line: after you get the test alert on your phone or hear it through the airwaves, relax and carry on with your day. No action needed from you, superhero!

History of the Mega-Test:

This Wednesday’s spectacle isn’t a first-time event. It’s the seventh-ever nationwide test of the Emergency Alert System (EAS). It’s the third national WEA test, but only the second to light up our cellular devices with this drill. Previous grand performances took place in 2021.