The Wireless Emergency Alert (WEA) system delivers critical warnings and information to the public on their wireless devices.  Participation by wireless providers is voluntary, but those that offer the service must adhere to the technical and operational requirements established by the FCC.

Authorized public safety officials send the alerts through FEMA's Integrated Public Alert and Warning System (IPAWS) to wireless providers, which then push the alerts from cell towers to mobile devices in the affected area.  The alerts appear like text messages on mobile devices.

FEMA, the FCC, and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration's National Weather Service work collaboratively to maintain Wireless Emergency Alerts and the Emergency Alert System, which are the two main components of the national public warning system.

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Updated:
Monday, March 4, 2024