From the National Weather Service:

NOAA and the California Office of Emergency Services (Cal OES) plan to conduct a test of the tsunami warning communications system on March 25 between 11 a.m. and noon PDT in coastal areas of northern California.

This emergency test will be broadcast on NOAA Weather Radio All Hazards, local television and radio stations in Del Norte, Humboldt, and Mendocino counties. Residents in some communities may hear warning sirens.

Some television systems are programmed to scroll a standard emergency alert text message and in some cases, the message may not contain the word “TEST.” An audio message will say that the message is only a test, but if the volume is turned down or otherwise unheard, viewers may not realize the message is a test.

To avoid confusion with an actual alert the test will be canceled if there is excessive seismic activity 24 hours prior to the test. People monitoring the test in coastal areas who do not receive it are asked to inform their local National Weather Service office. The public can provide feedback online at weather.gov/test.

The test is a cooperative effort between NOAA, Cal OES, California Broadcasters Association and local emergency management officials in coastal California.

During California’s Tsunami Preparedness Week, March 22 - 28, NOAA and emergency managers promote tsunami safety and awareness and urge coastal residents and visitors to prepare themselves and their families for a tsunami.  

NOAA’s National Tsunami Warning Center offers complete information, including the current status of tsunami warnings, advisories and watches, and frequently asked questions.

NOAA’s National Weather Service is the primary source of weather data, forecasts and warnings for the United States and its territories. NOAA’s National Weather Service operates the most advanced weather and flood warning and forecast system in the world, helping to protect lives and property and enhance the national economy. Working with partners, NOAA’s National Weather Service is building a Weather-Ready Nation to support community resilience in the face of increasing vulnerability to extreme weather. Visit us at weather.gov and join us on social media.