Heavy Freezing Spray and Gale Warnings Issued for Grand Marais to Whitefish Point

Alert Details

The National Weather Service in Marquette, MI, has issued a series of marine alerts for the Lake Superior region, including a Heavy Freezing Spray Warning and a Gale Warning. These alerts indicate significant hazards for maritime operations due to rapid ice accumulation and high winds. A Small Craft Advisory is also currently in effect.

Affected Areas

The primary area of concern is the Michigan coastline stretching from Grand Marais to Whitefish Point.

What You Should Do

Mariners are urged to take immediate precautions. The NWS advises that mariners should prepare for dangerous accumulation of ice on their vessels. If possible, remain in port or seek safe harbor. Those currently at sea should avoid the warning area, alter course, and secure their vessels for hazardous conditions. Rapid ice accretion on decks and superstructures may result in a catastrophic loss of stability.

Expected Conditions

• Freezing Spray: Accumulation rates of 2 cm per hour or greater are expected, which can lead to rapid ice buildup on decks and may render mechanical and electronic components inoperative.
• Winds: South winds between 20 to 30 knots are forecast during the Gale Warning, with gusts reaching up to 35 knots. During the Small Craft Advisory, north winds of 10 to 15 knots with gusts to 20 knots are occurring.
• Waves: Wave heights are expected to range between 2 to 5 feet during the Gale Warning and 3 to 5 feet during the Small Craft Advisory.
• Visibility: Strong winds and spray may reduce visibility for vessel operators.

Timeline

• Small Craft Advisory: In effect until 9 PM EST Monday evening.
• Initial Heavy Freezing Spray Warning: In effect until 7 PM EST Monday evening.
• Secondary Heavy Freezing Spray Warning: In effect from 9 AM to 7 PM EST Tuesday.
• Gale Warning: In effect from 10 AM to 7 PM EST Tuesday.