Heavy Freezing Spray Warning Issued for Bristol Bay Through Wednesday Night

Alert Details

The National Weather Service in Anchorage, AK, has issued a Heavy Freezing Spray Warning for the Bristol Bay region. This alert is currently in effect and is classified as a severe meteorological event with likely certainty.

Affected Areas

The warning specifically covers Bristol Bay at distances greater than 15 nautical miles from the coast (Zone PKZ760).

What You Should Do

Mariners and vessel operators are advised to avoid the warning area. Extreme freezing spray can cause rapid ice accumulation on vessels at a rate of 4 centimeters per hour or greater, which can significantly impact vessel stability and safety. Operators should monitor conditions closely and take necessary precautions to mitigate ice buildup.

Expected Conditions

• Wind: Northwest winds are expected to hold steady at 30 knots through Wednesday night.
• Seas: Wave heights are forecast at 9 feet in ice-free waters, subsiding slightly to 8 feet by Wednesday night.
• Accumulation: Extreme freezing spray is expected at a rate of 4 cm per hour or greater, particularly for vessels operating near the ice edge.
• Visibility/Hazards: Rapid ice accumulation is the primary hazard for maritime operations in the region.

Timeline

The warning is effective as of 2:55 PM AKST on February 24, 2026. The hazardous conditions are expected to persist through Wednesday night, with the warning officially set to expire at 5:00 PM AKST on Wednesday, February 25, 2026.