News Release > Entergy’s River Bend Station readies to modernize alert notification system

Entergy’s River Bend Station readies to modernize alert notification system

04/22/2025

FRANCISVILLE, La. – Entergy’s River Bend Station will soon modernize the local emergency notification process, transitioning to a nationally approved system that continues to alert local broadcast and news outlets while putting information directly in the hands of residents.

Similar to how people now get storm warnings through their electronic and mobile devices, the Integrated Public Alert and Warning System will give local residents more information in a timelier manner should an emergency occur. The IPAWS system has been used nationwide for years and is currently used by major nuclear plants for emergency alerts.

IPAWS works by sending local emergency messages to the public through mobile phones using wireless emergency alerts, to radio and television via the Emergency Alert System and also on the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s, or NOAA, weather radio. The Federal Emergency Management Agency developed IPAWS over a decade ago.

In case of an emergency, notifications would be shared directly with phones, radios and televisions within a 10-mile radius of the plant. Though they might not recognize the name, many southern U.S. residents are familiar with the system through tornado warnings and AMBER Alerts.

Working with local leaders and emergency management officials, Entergy expects to transition to the modernized system by April 23. As part of the process, West Feliciana Parish will test the system during the transition to ensure it operates safely and reliably.

Eventually, local sirens will be obsolete. At one time, they were the best technology available. But today, it is sometimes hard to hear sirens inside structures, and the IPAWS system has been tested and refined over many years, allowing immediate access to potentially lifesaving information.

After the transition, monthly siren tests will stop. The new system will be tested monthly, but local residents generally will receive only one test message per year. More information will be shared over time, including additional system test dates.

About Entergy Nuclear

Entergy Nuclear, headquartered in Jackson, Mississippi, is the organization responsible for supporting the operation of the Entergy utility nuclear fleet. Owned by Entergy’s utility companies, the nuclear fleet consists of five reactors in four locations, generating enough clean, carbon-free electricity to power millions of homes. For the latest news from Entergy Nuclear, visit the Newsroom and connect with @EntergyNuclear on social media.

About Entergy 

Entergy produces, transmits and distributes electricity to power life for 3 million customers through our operating companies in Arkansas, Louisiana, Mississippi and Texas. We’re investing for growth and improved reliability and resilience of our energy system while working to keep energy rates affordable for our customers. We’re also investing in cleaner energy generation like modern natural gas, nuclear and renewable energy. A nationally recognized leader in sustainability and corporate citizenship, we deliver more than $100 million in economic benefits each year to the communities we serve through philanthropy, volunteerism and advocacy. Entergy is a Fortune 500 company headquartered in New Orleans, Louisiana, and has approximately 12,000 employees. Learn more at entergy.com and connect with @Entergy on social media.