Heavy Freezing Spray and Hurricane Force Wind Warning for Barren Islands East

Alert Details

The National Weather Service in Anchorage, AK, has issued a Heavy Freezing Spray Warning for the Barren Islands East region. This alert is in effect from 5:00 PM AKST on Tuesday, February 24, until 5:00 PM AKST on Wednesday, February 25. Additionally, a Hurricane Force Wind Warning has been issued for Wednesday as conditions deteriorate.

Affected Areas

The warning specifically impacts the Barren Islands East (PKZ731) within the Northern Gulf of Alaska Coast, extending up to 100 nautical miles out, including areas near Kodiak Island and Cook Inlet.

What You Should Do

Mariners and vessel operators are advised to avoid the area. Extreme freezing spray can accumulate at a rate of 4 cm per hour or greater, which may rapidly build up on vessels, significantly impacting stability and safety. Operators should take necessary precautions before the onset of the most severe conditions.

Expected Conditions

• Wind Speed: Northwest winds starting at 45 knots on Tuesday, increasing to 55 knots overnight, and reaching hurricane-force speeds of 65 knots on Wednesday.
• Sea States: Wave heights are expected to build from 11 feet on Tuesday to a peak of 18 feet on Wednesday.
• Ice Accumulation: Heavy to extreme freezing spray is forecast, with accumulation rates of 4 cm per hour or greater expected to accumulate rapidly on vessels.

Timeline

• Onset: Tuesday, February 24 at 5:00 PM AKST.
• Peak Conditions: Wednesday, February 25, featuring the highest winds and sea heights.
• Expiration: Wednesday, February 25 at 5:00 PM AKST.