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Texas to Test Emergency Alert Systems Statewide as Severe Weather Season Begins
Officials said the mandatory drill will help identify gaps in warning systems before severe weather season, and no action is required from the public.
- On Thursday, April 2, the Texas Division of Emergency Management will conduct a first-of-its-kind statewide test of public warning systems, including Wireless Emergency Alerts and outdoor sirens.
- The drill aligns with efforts to improve communications following criticism during the 2023 winter storm. Austin Emergency Management Director Jim Redick noted Texas has the nation's highest opt-out rate, urging residents to remain enrolled.
- Data shows 29.5% of Texans opt out of at least one WEA compared to 17.5% nationally. Regional entities will stagger alerts throughout the morning, testing Integrated Public Alert & Warning System , radio, and television.
- After the drills, agencies will report results to the state to identify potential system gaps. Austin Mayor Kirk Watson emphasized, "If you aren't getting the test, you're not getting a warning."
- As Texas enters tornado and hurricane seasons, the exercise—which includes schools, tribal nations, and public safety agencies—aims to ensure readiness before disasters strike and build confidence in warning technology.
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Leaning Left2Leaning Right1Center8Last UpdatedBias Distribution73% Center
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- 73% of the sources are Center
73% Center
L 18%
C 73%
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