Federal officials are reminding residents ahead of next week's scheduled nationwide test of the Emergency Alert System (EAS).

?On Tuesday, November 17, 2026, at approximately 2:20 p.m. ET (1:20 p.m. CT), the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) will conduct the test across the country.

?According to FEMA, the test message will be broadcast strictly on television and radio stations. Unlike some previous alerts, this test will not be sent to mobile phones, and no action is required from the public.

?Under federal law, FEMA is required to conduct a nationwide EAS test at least once every three years. Officials note that these routine tests are essential to ensure the nation's public alert infrastructure remains operational and ready to deliver critical, life-saving information during actual emergencies.

?Following Tuesday's broadcast, FEMA and its partner agencies will evaluate the test data to identify any technical gaps and strengthen future alerting capabilities.

?More information about the Emergency Alert System is available on FEMA’s website at fema.gov.