FEMA to activate a nationwide emergency alert system tomorrow
The Federal Emergency Management Agency, in coordination with the Federal Communications Commission, will activate a nationwide emergency alert system tomorrow. While it’s an important process, some people are recommending that we fill our gas tanks and have food and water on hand in case there are problems.
The Emergency Alert System and Wireless Emergency Alerts will be tested Wednesday, October 3. Officials say the initial test was supposed to take place last month, but was postponed due to ongoing response efforts for Hurricane Florence.
The WEA portion of the test is set for 1:18 p.m. CST and the EAS portion will follow at 1:20 p.m. CST.
“As with any aspect of emergency management, it is always important to test our resources and determine if any challenges exist. We look forward to working with our federal partners on examining this vital communications tool. Getting clear and accurate information to those facing an emergency is critical in helping protect the public,” said GOHSEP Director Jim Waskom.
The ESA is a national public warning system that provides President Donald Trump with the communication capability to address the nation during a national emergency.
The message will read:
“THIS IS A TEST of the National Emergency Alert System. This system was developed by broadcast and cable operators in voluntary cooperation with the Federal Emergency Management Agency, the Federal Communications Commission, and local authorities to keep you informed in the event of an emergency. If this had been an actual emergency an official message would have followed the tone alert you heard at the start of this message. A similar wireless emergency alert test message has been sent to all cell phones nationwide. Some cell phones will receive the message; others will not. No action is required.”
