Full Notification

* WHAT...Heavy snow expected. Total snow accumulations between 6 and 10 inches. Winds gusting as high as 50 mph.

* WHERE...In Maryland, Garrett County. In West Virginia, Western Grant and Western Pendleton Counties.

* WHEN...From 6 AM Friday to 10 AM EST Saturday. Snow will begin early Friday morning, before picking up in intensity late morning into Friday afternoon. Snow will continue into Saturday morning.

* IMPACTS...The strong winds and weight of snow on tree limbs may down power lines and could cause sporadic power outages. Whiteout conditions are expected at times and will make travel treacherous and potentially life-threatening. Travel could be very difficult along Interstate 68 and US-40 west of Big Savage Mountain, US-48 west of Scherr, and US-33 west of Seneca Rocks. The hazardous conditions could impact the Friday morning and evening commutes. Gusty winds could bring down tree branches.

* ADDITIONAL DETAILS...Periods of very heavy snowfall are possible, with isolated spots experiencing snowfall rates of 1 to 2 inches per hour at times. This, paired with the strong winds, could lead to near-blizzard conditions at the higher elevations.

* AFFECTED AREAS: GARRETT ... WESTERN GRANT ... WESTERN PENDLETON

Instructions:

If you must travel, keep an extra flashlight, food, and water in your vehicle in case of an emergency. The latest road conditions for the state you are calling from can be obtained by calling 5 1 1. Persons are urged to stay indoors until conditions improve. If you must go outside, dress in layers. Several layers of clothes will keep you warmer than a single heavy coat. Cover exposed skin to reduce your risk of frostbite or hypothermia. Gloves, a scarf, and a hat will keep you from losing your body heat. Persons should consider delaying all travel. If travel is absolutely necessary, drive with extreme caution. Consider taking a winter storm kit along with you, including such items as tire chains, booster cables, flashlight, shovel, blankets and extra clothing. Also take water, a first aid kit, and anything else that would help you survive in case you become stranded.