Texas Conducts Statewide Emergency Alert Test

Residents across the state should expect phone notifications and sirens, but no need to panic - it's just a drill.

Apr. 2, 2026 at 11:26am

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The Texas Division of Emergency Management (TDEM) is conducting a statewide test of local emergency alert systems on April 2, 2026, from 10 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Residents may receive test messages on their mobile devices and hear outdoor warning sirens, but officials are urging the public not to call 911 as no action is required.

Why it matters

Regular testing of public warning systems is a critical component of community safety, helping to reaffirm procedures, build confidence in technology, and identify potential shortfalls before a real disaster strikes.

The details

The test will include alerts sent to cell phones, outdoor warning sirens, and other notification systems as part of a coordinated effort to evaluate the effectiveness and functionality of public warning tools. Some residents may receive more than one alert during the testing window. After the drill, participating organizations will be required to submit a summary of results and key takeaways to state emergency management officials.

  • The test window runs from 10 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. on April 2, 2026.

The players

Texas Division of Emergency Management (TDEM)

The state agency conducting the statewide emergency alert test.

Nim Kidd

TDEM Chief, who stated that regular testing of public warning systems is critical for community safety.

Travis Houston

Deputy director of Dallas' Office of Emergency Management and Crisis Response, who noted that Dallas tested its siren system the day before and that some residents may still hear sirens from neighboring jurisdictions during the statewide test.

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What they’re saying

“Regular testing of public warning systems is a critical component of community safety, adding that conducting drills helps reaffirm procedures, build confidence in technology, and identify potential shortfalls before a real disaster strikes.”

— Nim Kidd, TDEM Chief

What’s next

After the drill, participating organizations will be required to submit a summary of results, key takeaways, and details about local system performance to state emergency management officials.

The takeaway

This statewide emergency alert test is an important exercise to ensure Texas' public warning systems are functioning properly and ready to effectively notify residents in the event of a real emergency, helping to build community resilience.