OFFICIALS TO CONDUCT TEST OF THE ALASKA TSUNAMI WARNING SYSTEM – Thursday, March 27 at 10:15 a.m
The test is part of Tsunami Preparedness Week, proclaimed by Gov. Sean Parnell as March 23 to 29. The week coincides with the anniversary of the Good Friday Earthquake – a devastating 9.2 magnitude earthquake that triggered deadly tsunamis in Alaska on Good Friday, March 27, 1964.
The communications test will involve NOAA Weather Radio All Hazards, the emergency alert system and other state and local communication links. Radio listeners should hear the familiar alerting tone followed by an audio message describing the test, similar to the routine monthly tests of the emergency alert system. Residents of some communities may hear sirens, and the siren audio may not contain the word “TEST.”
It is important to note that some television systems are programmed to scroll a standard message based upon the emergency code received. In some cases, the message may not contain the word ‘TEST’. An audio message will say that it is a test, but if the volume is turned down or otherwise unheard, viewers may not realize the warning is a test.
The general public can participate in the test by monitoring NOAA Weather Radio All Hazards, commercial radio, cable TV or local television for the emergency alert system message. Local emergency management may use the test to help increase preparedness for the tsunami hazard. If there is excessive seismic activity on March 27, the test will be canceled.
The public can provide feedback online at ready.alaska.gov. People monitoring the test in coastal areas who do not receive the test through commercial or weather radio should inform their local National Weather Service office.
Click here for answers to frequently asked tsunami-related questions.