Heavy Freezing Spray and Storm Warnings Issued for Lake Superior Near Marquette

Alert Details

The National Weather Service in Marquette, MI, has issued a Heavy Freezing Spray Warning and a Storm Warning for specific maritime regions of Lake Superior. These alerts indicate severe conditions that pose a significant threat to vessel stability and safety due to extreme wind and rapid ice accretion.

Affected Areas

The warning affects the following geographic regions:

• Huron Islands to Marquette, MI
• Lake Superior West of a line from Manitou Island to Marquette, MI, beyond 5 nautical miles from the shore.

What You Should Do

Mariners are strongly advised to remain in port, alter course, or secure their vessels for severe conditions. Those in the warning area should prepare for dangerous accumulation of ice. If possible, avoid the warning area entirely or conduct immediate mitigation to manage ice buildup on decks and superstructures.

Expected Conditions

• Winds: West winds of 30 to 40 knots are expected, with gusts reaching up to 50 knots.
• Waves: Wave heights are forecast between 3 to 6 feet.
• Freezing Spray: Heavy freezing spray is expected at a rate of 2 cm per hour or greater.
• Hazards: Rapid ice accumulation may render mechanical and electronic components inoperative and could lead to a catastrophic loss of vessel stability. Storm-force winds and hazardous waves may capsize or damage vessels and significantly reduce visibility.

Timeline

• Storm Warning: Effective from 1:00 PM Friday to 10:00 AM EST Saturday.
• Heavy Freezing Spray Warning: Effective from 10:00 PM Friday to 4:00 PM EST Saturday.