Feds to test emergency alert system with 2:20 p.m. message on TV, radio, phones

Federal emergency officials today will be conducting a nationwide test of the U.S. Emergency Alert System and Wireless Emergency Alert Systems, critical tools in notifying the public about national emergencies.

The 30-minute test will begin around 2:20 p.m. eastern daylight time and last about 30 minute.

Even if phones are on silent mode, it should play a tone and display the message: "THIS IS A TEST of the National Wireless Emergency Alert System. No action is needed."

Concurrently with the cell phone alert. radios and TVs will play a tone and display the message: "This is a nationwide test of the Emergency Alert System, issued by the Federal Emergency Management Agency, covering the United States from 14:20 to 14:50 hours. This is only a test. No action is required by the public."

The main objective of this test is to ensure that these systems remain effective in warning the public about potential emergencies, especially on a national scale.