Direct answer: I don’t have real-time updates here, but I can share the latest widely reported context about national Emergency Alert System (EAS) tests.
- What it is: The Emergency Alert System is the nationwide framework used to deliver emergency messages via broadcast TV/radio and, in many cases, mobile devices. Tests are scheduled by FEMA in coordination with the FCC, typically at 2:20 PM local time, and may last a few minutes depending on the specific test.[3][5]
- Recent patterns: Nationwide EAS tests have occurred several times in the past decade (e.g., 2011, 2018, 2021, 2023), with standard messaging “This is a test” and, in some cases, accompanying Wireless Emergency Alerts (WEA) messages on mobile devices. The exact date and whether the backup date is used depend on weather or other contingencies.[5][8][3]
- How to verify today’s status: Check official FEMA communications or the FCC’s Emergency Alert System pages for the latest test announcements and performance notes. Local emergency management offices may also post schedules for any regional EAS-related activities.[3][5]
If you’d like, I can search for the very latest news from authorities (e.g., FEMA, FCC) and summarize the exact test date, duration, and any notable issues or learnings.
Sources
Yes, you can silence it
www.techradar.com"THIS IS A TEST": If you have a cellphone or were watching television Wednesday, you should have seen that message flash across your screen.
nebraska.tvA Nationwide Test of the Emergency Alert System (S.A.M.E code: NPT; formerly known as a National Periodic Test from 2011 to 2022) is a type of test that is issued over the Emergency Alert System and conducted by FEMA and the FCC. National Periodic Tests are conducted for the entire country using the United States area code. The first Nationwide Test of the Emergency Alert System was conducted on November 9, 2011, at 2:00 PM EST, using the National Emergency Message (EAN) code. The most...
emergencyalertsystem.fandom.comThe Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), in coordination with the Federal Communications Commission (FCC), will conduct a nationwide test of the Wireless Emergency Alerts (WEA) and Emergency Alert System (EAS) on Wednesday, Oct. 4.
news.wm.eduThis week, you might notice an unexpected message from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). FEMA and the Federal Communications Commission recently announced they would conduct a nationwide test of the Emergency Alert System and Wireless Emergency Alerts. The television, radio, and cell phone tests will take place at 2:20 p.m. on Wednesday. For consumers, the message that appears on their phones will read: “THIS IS A TEST of the National Wireless...
www.haponline.orgThe Federal Emergency Management Agency conducted a mandatory nationwide test of the Emergency Alert System.
www.cbsnews.com"THIS IS A TEST": If you have a cellphone or were watching television Wednesday, you should have seen that message flash across your screen.
nbcmontana.comThe U.S. Department of Homeland Security's Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and the Federal Communications Commission (FCC), the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) will conduct the first nationwide test of the Emergency Alert System (EAS). The nationwide test will occur on Wednesday, November 9 and may last up to three and a half minutes. The public will hear a message indicating that "This is a test." The audio message will be the same for both radio, television,...
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