Nationwide Emergency Alert System test set for Nov. 17 will interrupt TV and radio

LOGAN - The Federal Communications Commission says the Federal Emergency Management Agency will run a nationwide test of the Emergency Alert System on Tuesday, Nov. 17, in coordination with the FCC.

FEMA will send the test at 2:20 p.m. Eastern Time, which is 12:20 p.m. in Utah, according to the FCC's public notice DA 26-989. Radio and television stations, cable systems and other alert participants are required to take part, so viewers and listeners may see or hear an interruption.

The notice says the test will go out in English and Spanish. The test message will identify a nationwide Emergency Alert System test from FEMA, covering 2:20 to 2:50 p.m. Eastern Time, and will tell the public: "This is only a test. No action is required by the public."

If conditions require, the test will be held Dec. 3 instead, the FCC says.

Why this matters

People in Cache County who are watching television or listening to the radio at 12:20 p.m. on Nov. 17 may see or hear the test. The FCC says no action is required. If the test is postponed, it would be held Dec. 3 instead.

Source: FCC Public Safety and Homeland Security Bureau notice DA 26-989, released Sept. 16, 2026; FCC EAS Test Reporting System page.