FEMA and FCC schedule nationwide emergency alert system test for November 17
November 2, 2026
Federal emergency officials are giving the public an early heads-up ahead of a scheduled nationwide test of the Emergency Alert System (EAS) later this month.
The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), in coordination with the Federal Communications Commission (FCC), will conduct the routine test on Tuesday, November 17, 2026, at approximately 2:20 p.m. EST.
Unlike previous national tests that triggered alarms on wireless devices, officials confirmed that this exercise will air exclusively across television and radio broadcast networks. No alerts will be sent to mobile phones or cellular devices, and no action is required from the public.
What Viewers and Listeners Will Experience
During the broadcast window—spanning approximately from 2:20 p.m. to 2:50 p.m. EST—regular programming across cable, satellite, broadcast television, and AM/FM radio stations will temporarily pause.
Audiences will hear the familiar two-tone emergency audio signal accompanied by an on-screen visual message stating:
“This is a nationwide test of the Emergency Alert System, issued by the Federal Emergency Management Agency, covering the United States from 2:20 to 2:50 hours ET. This is only a test. No action is required by the public.”
Routine Readiness Under Federal Mandate
Under federal law, FEMA is required to conduct a nationwide test of the EAS at least once every three years to assess operational readiness. Routine trials verify that the transmission infrastructure, broadcast decoders, and public warning pipelines function smoothly so authorities can relay critical, life-saving information during severe weather emergencies, natural disasters, or national crises.
Following the broadcast, federal engineers and emergency management partners will review reception data across regional markets, including Upstate broadcast affiliates, to identify potential signal gaps and strengthen future alert capabilities.
For more information on national public warning protocols and the Integrated Public Alert & Warning System (IPAWS), visit fema.gov.
