You should also see and hear the test on your phone

If your phone starts going crazy this week, don’t be alarmed – it’s only a test.
FEMA will be launching a Nationwide Emergency Alert Test Wednesday October 4th.

If things go as planned, every cell phone, radio, and TV will blare that familiar warning tone, followed by a voice explaining it’s only a test.

The test is scheduled for Wednesday, Oct. 4th at 1:20pm CST. It will last roughly one minute.

The WEA (Wireless Emergency Alerts) portion of the test will be directed to all consumer cell phones. “This will be the third nationwide test, but the second test to all cellular devices,” said FEMA in a press release. “The test message will display in either English or in Spanish, depending on the language settings of the wireless handset.”

Even if your phone is on silent, the test should still be heard.

In case the Oct. 4 test is postponed due to widespread severe weather or other significant events, FEMA said the back-up testing date is Oct. 11.

Susan Saunders 10/3/23