FCC Report on 2019 National Emergency Alert Test

On August 7, 2019, the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), in coordination with the Federal Communications Commission (FCC), conducted a nationwide test of the Emergency Alert System (EAS) using only the broadcast-based distribution system, otherwise known as the daisy chain. A final analysis of the test finds that a large majority of the EAS Participants successfully received the national periodic test code, or NPT, and, as required by our rules, retransmitted the NPT to other EAS Participants. The test thus demonstrated that the national EAS distribution architecture is largely effective as designed.

The 2019 nationwide EAS test was successful in that it demonstrated that the nationwide broadcast-based EAS distribution system would largely perform as designed, if activated without the availability of the Internet. At the same time, the test exposed several deficiencies within the system that require improvement. Some areas of deficiency stem from matters within the control of the EAS Participants themselves and can be redressed with better education, continued training, and improved communication as described above. At the same time, we recognize that it is difficult to achieve 100% assurance that all components in the chain will function properly in the future. For example, it is difficult to anticipate when technical problems with EAS Participants’ equipment will arise, or where an unforeseen weather complication can negatively affect the reception and relay of a message. As noted above, however, continued and regular testing of the system will help ensure that any needed improvements and adjustments are made to address those circumstances that can be identified in advance, and that EAS equipment is in reliable working order. The Bureau will continue to work with FEMA, EAS Participants, and other EAS stakeholders to improve the system and ensure that the EAS remains effective and can transmit timely and accurate national alerts to the public when they are needed the most.