At 2:20 this afternoon, the Federal Emergency Management Agency will perform a national test of its Integrated Public Alert and Warning System. It’s the first time an official national test has been conducted – and FEMA’s Wade Witmer says most will find it very similar to the regular monthly test.
“Only people who are very carefully listening will notice that the text and the audio says this is a national test in coordination with the FCC, FEMA, and broadcasters in your area.”
Cell phones will not be tested during this event. Witmer says the hope is to do the national test yearly. The goal is to assess the readiness and effectiveness of the warning system in the case of an emergency.
