TDEM Tests Statewide Public Warning Systems with Drill
The Texas Division of Emergency Management is running a statewide test of local alerting systems on April 2, 2026. The exercise will occur between 10:00 a.m. and 12:30 p.m. Central Time.
What to expect during the drill
Residents may receive emergency alerts on mobile phones. Broadcast messages could appear on televisions and radio stations. Outdoor warning sirens may also sound in some communities.
Cities and counties will activate their primary, alternate, and contingency systems. The event is designed to exercise multiple notification channels.
Scope and purpose
TDEM Tests Statewide Public Warning Systems with Drill to assess system performance under real conditions. Officials will use this opportunity to identify gaps and improve response procedures.
The exercise was announced March 18. It aims to verify precision, timeliness, and system reliability before actual emergencies.
Local participation and guidance
Austin Emergency Management and the Travis County Office of Emergency Management will participate together. Local officials urge residents to enable emergency alerts on their devices.
People can sign up for phone, text, and email alerts at WarnCentralTexas.org. Those near county lines may receive alerts from neighboring jurisdictions due to signal overlap.
How residents can prepare
- Check notification settings on mobile devices.
- Register for local alerts at WarnCentralTexas.org.
- Expect possible sirens, broadcasts, and wireless emergency alerts.
Official remarks
Texas Emergency Management Chief Nim Kidd said regular drills strengthen readiness. He emphasized testing procedures and technologies to reveal weaknesses before disasters occur.
Kidd noted exercises help build confidence in warning tools and ensure they perform when needed most.
Additional information and sources
Further details are available at ReadyCentralTexas.org and WarnCentralTexas.org. The test information comes from the Texas Division of Emergency Management and the City of Austin.
Filmogaz.com compiled this update from official releases and public notices.
