ELKINS – A Blizzard Warning for parts of Randolph and Pocahontas counties has been announced by the Randolph County Office of Emergency Management and 911.

According to a release from the Randolph County OEM this morning, the weather situation may become “extreme” and present an “extraordinary threat to life or property.”

Blizzard conditions are expected from 7 p.m. this evening to 4 p.m. Thursday, the release states. Total snow accumulations between 4 and 8 inches are expected, with winds gusting as high as 55 mph. 

The Blizzard Warning is for Northwest Pocahontas and Southeast Randolph counties. 

“Roads, and especially bridges and overpasses, will likely become slick and hazardous,” the release states. “Visibilities may drop below 1/4 mile due to falling and blowing snow. Whiteout conditions are expected and will make travel treacherous and potentially life-threatening.

“Travel could be very difficult. The hazardous conditions could impact the Thursday morning commute. Strong winds could cause extensive damage to trees and power lines.”

The release advises that “travel should be restricted to emergencies only. If you must travel, have a winter survival kit with you. If you get stranded, stay with your vehicle.

The latest road conditions can be obtained by calling 511. Additional information can be found at https://www.weather.gov/rlx as well as on the Randolph County OEM Facebook and Twitter pages.