On Wednesday, October 4, 2023, at approximately 2:20 pm Eastern Time, the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) conducted a nationwide test of the Emergency Alert System. The test was designed to ensure that the emergency systems are still working effectively and to make sure that everyone is aware of the system. During the test, all wireless phones, radios, and televisions received an alert and an accompanying text message that read: "This is a nationwide test of the Emergency Alert System, issued by the Federal Emergency Management Agency, covering the United States from 14:20 to 14:50 hours ET. This is only a test. No action is required by the public". The test lasted for approximately 30 minutes, and cell towers broadcasted the test during that time.