The Presidential Alert is a type of Wireless Emergency Alert (WEA) that is issued at the direction of the President or an appointee and is activated by FEMA representatives. It is used to alert the public of national emergencies such as terrorist attacks or widespread natural disasters. The Presidential Alert is one of four types of alerts that can be sent through the WEA system, the others being "Imminent Threat" alerts, "AMBER Alerts" about missing children, and "Public Safety Messages" conveying recommendations for saving lives and property.
The Presidential Alert is not a cause for concern as it is part of a nationwide emergency alert test carried out every three years across the United States. The test is mandated under federal law to test the Integrated Public Alert and Warning System and is broadcast from cell towers for around 30 minutes. The message should read "THIS IS A TEST of the National Wireless Emergency Alert System. No action is needed". If your phone is on and within range of an active cell tower from a participating provider, you should receive the alert.
