It’s Only A Test Texas: Alert Tests Happening Thursday

(Texas) Texans could feel bombarded by multiple emergency alerts on Thursday, April 2. Alerts will be sent to mobile devices, emergency tones will play on the radio and TV, and outdoor warning systems will be activated. This might sound alarming, but officials say not to be alarmed because it is all part of a planned statewide test.

Why Texas Is Testing Emergency Alert Systems

The Texas Division of Emergency Management (TDEM) has declared April 2 as a day to test statewide and local emergency alert systems to evaluate their effectiveness and functionality.

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What Alerts Texans Might Receive

In addition to severe weather warnings, Texans receive emergency alerts for missing children and elderly people, wanted suspects, local emergencies, and presidential alerts concerning the nation. These alert messages are vitally important to those who receive them.  Texas Emergency Management Chief Nim Kidd says,

"Regular training and testing of public warning systems builds readiness before disaster strikes and is an important component of community safety. Conducting drills to reaffirm procedures, promote confidence in technological tools, and identify potential shortfalls is key to ensuring these systems operate with precision, accuracy, and timeliness when they are needed the most."

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When the Alerts Will Happen

The tests will be conducted on a state and local level, and Texans could receive multiple test alerts between 10 a.m. and 12:30 p.m. on Thursday, April 2. Both the City of Tyler and Longview will be sending tests to those residents who have signed up for local alerts from the city.

If you have not signed up for alerts from these cities, you may click the city name above to sign up and get more information.  If your city is not listed, check your local city's website.

Who Could Receive Test Alerts

In addition to statewide tests, those who have signed up to receive alerts from their city or local school district may receive a test alert. Other participating entities include colleges and universities, councils of government, river authorities, sovereign tribal nations, law enforcement agencies, and any other entities with emergency alerting capability.

Why These Tests Matter for Public Safety

Once the tests have been completed, these organizations will evaluate the effectiveness of the test and come up with ways to improve their system, fix any issues, and share any relevant information with TDEM about their test.

While you may have alert fatigue on Thursday, April 2, this test is vital to make sure the alerts are being properly received so they are properly received during an actual emergency.

Remember, this is only a test.