The Federal Communications Commission is set to conduct a nationwide test of the Emergency Alert System.
The test is Wednesday, Oct. 4 at 1:20 p.m. CST/12:20 p.m. MST.
Radio and television providers, including SDPB, will broadcast the test for approximately one minute.
Wireless Emergency Alerts will be sent to all cell phones. Government officials are working with wireless providers, emergency managers, and others to conduct the test.
These partners working together allow for the alerts to be accessible to everyone. FEMA officials said these test are important to ensure the public can be notified of any national emergency.
The text will be similar to what is broadcasted and will state:
"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."
If the test is delayed by incoming severe weather or any other widespread event, the back-up test is scheduled for Oct. 11.
