Heavy Freezing Spray and Storm Warnings Issued for Yakutat Bay

Alert Details

The National Weather Service in Juneau, AK, has issued multiple marine weather alerts for Yakutat Bay, including a Heavy Freezing Spray Warning and a Storm Warning. These alerts follow an initial Gale Warning as conditions in the region deteriorate.

Affected Areas

This alert specifically impacts Yakutat Bay (PKZ053).

What You Should Do

Mariners are strongly advised to prepare for dangerous accumulation of ice on their vessels. If possible, remain in port, avoid the warning area, or conduct immediate mitigation. Mariners should alter course and secure their vessels for severe conditions to prevent catastrophic loss of stability or damage.

Expected Conditions

Weather conditions in Yakutat Bay are expected to be severe, with the following hazards identified:

• Heavy Freezing Spray: Accumulation rates of 2 cm per hour or greater are expected, which may rapidly build up on decks and superstructures.
• Storm Conditions: Northeast winds of 35 to 45 knots with gusts reaching up to 65 knots. Seas are expected to range between 6 and 9 feet.
• Gale Conditions: Northeast winds of 30 to 40 knots with gusts up to 55 knots and seas of 7 to 9 feet.

Operating a vessel in these conditions is extremely hazardous. Freezing spray can render mechanical and electronic components inoperative, while storm-force winds and hazardous seas may capsize or damage vessels and significantly reduce visibility.

Timeline

• Gale Warning: In effect until 6:00 AM AKST Friday, February 20.
• Storm Warning: In effect from 6:00 AM AKST Friday, February 20, until 6:00 AM AKST Saturday, February 21.
• Heavy Freezing Spray Warning: In effect from 9:00 PM AKST Friday, February 20, until 6:00 AM AKST Saturday, February 21.