The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) will hold a test of the National Emergency Alert System (EAS) today at approximately 1:20 p.m.

The EAS is a national warning system designed to alert the public of local weather emergencies such as tornadoes and flash floods and also for local information such as amber alerts. Marion County Emergency Management Coordinator Jeff Anderson tells KNIA/KRLS News last week the Department of Public Safety tried to issue an amber alert but there were delays in the alert which shows why testing equipment is important. KNIA/KRLS is apart of the Emergency Alert System and will take part in today’s test. EAS is jointly coordinated by FEMA, the Federal Communications Commission and the National Weather Service. A back-up date of October 4th has been slated if there’s any need to delay today’s test. Stay tuned to KNIA/KRLS during any emergency for updates.