This is only a test: Federal government will test its emergency alert system Wednesday

The federal government will be testing its national emergency alert system at that time.

Every cellphone in America capable of receiving text messages will get one at that time that says: “THIS IS A TEST of the National Wireless Emergency Alert System. No action is needed.” A tone, similar to the kind that is activated by an Amber Alert, will be played.

TV and radio stations will also take part in the test at which time you will hear: “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 ET. This is only a test. No action is required by the public.” Those alerts will last one minute.

The tests are being coordinated by the Federal Emergency Management Agency and the Federal Communications Commission. The purpose is to make sure the communication systems function properly in the event of a major emergency, especially one at a national level.