FEMA Will Host Webinars For National EAS Test
Broadcasters can attend two identical sessions in October to prepare for the nationwide emergency alert test in November.
Updated on Oct. 13, 2026 in Safety
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FEMA has scheduled two informational webinars to assist broadcasters with logistics and best practices ahead of the national Emergency Alert System (EAS) test. The national EAS test is scheduled to occur on Nov. 17, 2026.
Why it matters
These sessions help ensure that broadcasting infrastructure is prepared to successfully relay the nationwide alert. FEMA aims to standardize best practices for the system test to ensure reliable public access to emergency information.
FEMA has organized two identical webinars to cover test logistics and operational best practices. The sessions are set for Oct. 16 from 11 a.m. to noon and Oct. 20 from 2:30 to 3:30 p.m. ET.
The players
FEMA
The Federal Emergency Management Agency is the United States government agency responsible for coordinating the response to disasters and managing national emergency communication systems.
IPAWS Division
The Integrated Public Alert and Warning System is the FEMA-managed framework that provides a common alert and warning infrastructure for federal, state, and local authorities.
The details
The IPAWS Division will lead both webinar sessions to provide guidance on the upcoming test. Broadcasters are required to register online for their preferred session to receive information on test requirements.
Timeline
The first webinar session is scheduled for Oct. 16, 2026, from 11 a.m. to noon ET.
The second webinar session is scheduled for Oct. 20, 2026, from 2:30 to 3:30 p.m. ET.
The national EAS test is set to take place on Nov. 17, 2026.
Seasonal Patterns
These webinars align with the operational cycle of the Emergency Alert System (EAS) national testing mandate. This preparation marks a critical phase in the annual or multi-year sequence of ensuring national alert readiness across United States broadcasting networks.
While these webinars are designed for industry professionals, broadcasters should ensure their systems are configured correctly to relay the national alert. Members of the public can expect to see and hear test alerts on their television and radio devices on Nov. 17.
The takeaway
Maintaining a functional national alert system requires coordinated preparation between federal agencies and private broadcasters. Staying informed about these test windows helps ensure that emergency communication channels remain effective when needed.
What happens next
The national EAS test will occur on Nov. 17, 2026.
Further reading
For more information on national alert systems, visit the United States Safety page.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Radio World.
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