06/14/2026
In the mountains, bars drop—radios don’t. KXI81 (Elkins) on 162.475 MHz is your 24/7 all‑hazards lifeline when storms spin up fast.
NOAA Weather Radio broadcasts warnings, watches, and civil alerts even when cell service, internet, or TV are down—common across Randolph County’s hollows. An inexpensive receiver ($25–$60) adds a loud 90+ dB alert that can wake you at 3 a.m., buying you precious minutes during tornadoes or flash floods. FEMA recommends at least two independent alert methods; this is one you can trust.
Station specifics for Elkins:
• Channel: 4 (162.475 MHz), call sign KXI81
• Transmitter: Cheat Mountain–Beverly area (~3,900 ft), ~300 W ERP
• Typical coverage: ~40 miles (terrain-dependent)
• Primary counties: Randolph, Barbour, Upshur, Tucker, Pocahontas, Pendleton
• Weekly test: Wednesdays, 11 a.m.–noon (moves to next fair-weather day if storms threaten)
Cut false alarms with S.A.M.E. county codes (program only what you need):
• Randolph 054083 • Barbour 054001 • Upshur 054097
• Tucker 054093 • Pocahontas 054075 • Pendleton 054071
Quick-start checklist:
1) Power up, select Channel 4 (162.475 MHz)
2) Enter your county’s S.A.M.E. code; enable TOR, FFW, SVR, WIN alerts
3) Insert backup AA batteries and run a self-test
4) Place bedside or in a hallway so you’ll hear it while asleep
Pro tips:
• Choose a S.A.M.E./Public Alert radio (e.g., Midland WR120/WR400, Sangean CL‑100, Eton FRX3+)
• Keep it plugged in 24/7 with fresh AAs or Ni‑MH for outages
• If you’re in a hollow, try an external VHF antenna near an upstairs window
• Pair with Wireless Emergency Alerts on your phone for redundancy
Why it matters here:
• WV is among the top states for sudden flash flooding fatalities—early warning saves lives
• Average tornado lead-time is 8–13 minutes; a bedside NWR can give you every one of them
Where to grab one today (under $40):
• Elkins Walmart (Midland WR120)
• Hardware Plus, South Davis Ave (Eton ZoneGuard+)
• Online: Amazon, MidlandUSA.com, REI (handhelds)
Want storm updates right at your campsite? Discover the extra reassurance that comes with staying at Revelle’s River Resort.