A nationwide test is taking place Wednesday, testing the emergency alert system. It is a test that starts with three beeps and a long tone and has the ability to warn everyone near a television or radio of an emergency situation.
Emergency Alert System tests are usually enacted separately. At 1 p.m. Wednesday, the test will be seen and heard simultaneously across the nation.
Whether you are watching cable or satellite TV or listening to AM/FM or satellite radio, you will receive the one minute warning test.
The audio portion of the test will clearly indicate that it is indeed a test, for the video portion, TV stations have created special graphics to indicate the warning is a nationwide test.
Beyond Amber Alerts and severe weather warnings, the nationwide test will ensure the system could be used in national emergencies like 9/11, or in statewide emergencies like the 2007 Greensburg tornado.
