October 4, 2023 4:10 a.m.

The Federal Emergency Management Agency is conducting a nationwide Wireless Emergency Alert test on all consumer cell phones at 11:20 a.m. on Wednesday.

A release from the Oregon Department of Emergency Management said people will see a message on their phones that reads “THIS IS A TEST of the National Wireless Emergency Alert System. No action is needed”.

At the same time, FEMA will also test the Emergency Alert System that broadcasts on radios and televisions. A similar message will be heard during that test.

The tests are part of an effort to raise awareness about the need for preparedness and to ensure that the systems continue to be an effective means of warning the public about emergencies, particularly those on the national level.