Nationwide alert tests this afternoon

Nationwide tests are scheduled this afternoon of both the Emergency Alert System and the Wireless Emergency Alerts.  The national tests start at 2:20 this afternoon ET and are conducted by “FEMA”, in coordination with the FCC.  The EAS portion of the test will be sent to radio and TV.  The Wireless Emergency Alert will be directed only to consumer cell phones where the subscriber has opted-in to get test messages.  The purpose is to ensure that the EAS and WEA systems continue to be effective means of warning the public about emergencies, especially those on the national level.