What Is IPAWS? America’s Emergency Alert System To Be Tested Next Week
Summary
FEMA and the FCC plan a nationwide Emergency Alert System test for November 17 at 2:20 p.m. Eastern. The test will interrupt radio and television broadcasts for about one minute; cellphones will not be affected.Key Facts
- FEMA announced the test on Tuesday and said it will use the Emergency Alert System, part of its Integrated Public Alert and Warning System (IPAWS).
- Nationwide tests of the system take place at least once every three years.
- IPAWS supports three alert channels: Wireless Emergency Alerts to mobile phones, Emergency Alert System broadcasts on radio and television, and NOAA Weather Radio.
- The last nationwide test focused on Wireless Emergency Alerts and took place in 2023.
- The November 17 test will include alert tones to support people who are deaf or hard of hearing.
- Broadcasters may provide test audio in English, Spanish, or both.
- FEMA advises people to prepare an emergency kit with three days of food and water, a flashlight, a first-aid kit, and backup power.
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