Texas Border Business
EDINBURG — Hidalgo County will join communities across the state in a coordinated statewide drill of local public warning systems on Thursday, April 2, 2026, as part of an initiative led by the Texas Division of Emergency Management (TDEM).
The exercise will take place between 10 a.m. and 12:30 p.m. and is designed to test the effectiveness and reliability of public alert and warning systems used during emergencies. The test alerts will come through mobile devices from various platforms, including emergency notification systems, sirens, and other communication tools.
During the drill, residents may receive multiple test alerts through different systems. A primary alert will be issued through IPAWS. Residents who are signed up for Hidalgo County’s E-Dalgo system will also receive a county-issued test notification. In addition, those who live within city limits may receive a separate alert from their municipality. All alerts are part of the planned drill, and no action is required.
Watch the Public Service Announcement from Hidalgo County below:
“Regular testing of our emergency alert systems is critical to making sure we are prepared to protect our residents when it matters most,” said County Judge Richard F. Cortez. “This statewide drill allows us to evaluate our capabilities, strengthen coordination with our partners, and ensure that Hidalgo County remains ready to respond quickly and effectively in times of crisis.”
The drill is part of TDEM’s ongoing commitment to strengthening emergency preparedness across Texas. To support a unified effort statewide, TDEM has established a designated testing window, allowing participating agencies to activate primary, alternate, and backup alert systems. Following the exercise, participating entities will provide feedback to TDEM, including key observations and recommendations to enhance future performance.
Residents are reminded that any alerts received during this time frame on April 2 are part of the planned drill and do not require action. They are only a test. Residents are encouraged to check their phones software system to ensure government and emergency alerts are turns on.
For more information on emergency preparedness in Hidalgo County, visit the County’s official website or follow us on social media.
