Expect your radio, television, and smartphone to blast a screeching alert this afternoon with the nationwide test of the National Emergency Alert System (EAS) and Wireless Emergency Alerts (WEA).
According to officials, FEMA, in coordination with the Federal Communications Commission (FCC), will conduct the test at approximately 1:20 p.m. local time with two portions, testing WEA and EAS capabilities.
This will be the seventh nationwide EAS test. This will be the third nationwide WEA test, but the second test for all WEA-compatible cellular devices.
The WEA portion of the test will be directed to consumer cell phones. The test message will display in either English or in Spanish, depending on the language settings of the wireless handset.
The EAS portion of the test will be sent to radios and televisions — including all of the local White River Now radio stations. A one-minute test announcement will state: “This is a nationwide test of the Emergency Alert System.”
FEMA and the FCC are coordinating with EAS participants, wireless providers, emergency managers, and other stakeholders in preparation for this national test to minimize confusion and maximize the public safety value of the test.
The purpose of the test is to ensure that the systems continue to be effective means of warning the public about emergencies, particularly those on the national level.
If today’s test is postponed due to widespread severe weather or other significant events, the backup testing date is Oct. 11.
Have a news tip or event to promote? Email White River Now at news@whiterivernow.com. Be sure to like and follow us on Facebook and Twitter. And don’t forget to download the White River Now mobile app from the Google Play Store or the Apple App Store.
Get up-to-date local and regional news/weather from the First Community Bank Newsroom on Arkansas 103.3 KWOZ every weekday morning and afternoon. White River Now updates are also aired on weekday mornings on 93 KZLE, Outlaw 106.5, and Your FM 99.5.
