SiriusXM Resumes Weekly Emergency Alert System Tests
The company restarted its weekly system testing on July 27 after a brief pause in transmissions earlier this year.
Updated on Oct. 27, 2026 in Safety
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SiriusXM resumed weekly Emergency Alert System (EAS) tests on July 27, 2026, following a suspension of these required weekly transmissions in May. The company now originates the tests through its own internal systems to ensure continuity for its listeners.
Why it matters
Resuming these tests is critical to maintaining the reliability of the national emergency infrastructure for remote stations and the public. These periodic checks confirm that the alerting system remains fully operational for essential public safety communications.
SiriusXM now conducts Required Weekly Tests via its own internal systems following an operational pause. The platform continues to relay Required Monthly Tests in full compliance with current FCC regulations.
The players
SiriusXM
This is a satellite radio broadcaster that provides subscription-based audio entertainment services across the United States.
Federal Communications Commission
This is the independent federal agency that regulates interstate and international communications by radio, television, wire, satellite, and cable.
FEMA
This is the federal agency tasked with coordinating the government's response to disasters that overwhelm the resources of local and state authorities.
The details
The tests are broadcast on the company's un-hosted barker channel, which features a continuous audio loop. This return to the standard testing schedule ensures consistency for regional outlets, such as those in Wisconsin that utilize the barker channel for EAS relay.
Timeline
May 2026: SiriusXM paused transmission of Required Weekly Tests.
July 27, 2026: SiriusXM officially resumed the weekly EAS tests.
Nov. 17, 2026: FEMA and the FCC are scheduled to conduct a nationwide EAS test.
Seasonal Patterns
The return to standard testing frequency follows the procedural requirements established by the Emergency Alert System regulations. This activity aligns with broader federal efforts to maintain readiness ahead of scheduled national communications drills.
Listeners should remain aware that these tests are routine operational checks and do not indicate an active emergency. Familiarizing yourself with the upcoming nationwide test on November 17 helps ensure you understand how alert systems function on your radio devices.
The takeaway
Regular testing of the alert system is a vital component of national public safety and emergency preparedness. Listeners should view these routine broadcasts as a confirmation that critical communication channels remain functional.
What happens next
FEMA and the FCC are scheduled to conduct a nationwide Emergency Alert System test on November 17, 2026.
Further reading
For more information on national preparedness and alert protocols, visit the Safety section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Radio World.
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