Heavy Freezing Spray Warning Issued for Glacier Bay Through Saturday Morning

Alert Details

The National Weather Service (NWS) in Juneau has issued a Heavy Freezing Spray Warning for Glacier Bay. This alert is issued in conjunction with a Gale Warning and a Small Craft Advisory as hazardous marine conditions intensify in the region.

Affected Areas

The primary geographic area affected by this warning is Glacier Bay.

What You Should Do

Mariners are strongly advised to prepare for dangerous ice accumulation on their vessels. The NWS recommends remaining in port or seeking safe harbor if possible. Those at sea should avoid the warning area, alter course, and secure their vessels for hazardous conditions to prevent the loss of mechanical or electronic functionality.

Expected Conditions

• Freezing Spray: Heavy freezing spray is expected to accumulate at a rate of 2 cm per hour or greater. This rapid ice accretion on decks and superstructures poses a risk of catastrophic loss of stability.
• Wind: North winds are forecast between 25 to 35 knots, with gusts reaching up to 45 knots during the Gale Warning period.
• Seas and Visibility: Strong winds will result in hazardous seas that could capsize or damage vessels and significantly reduce visibility.
• Equipment: Freezing spray may render critical mechanical and electronic components inoperative.

Timeline

• Small Craft Advisory: In effect from 6:00 AM to 12:00 PM AKST today.
• Gale Warning: In effect from 12:00 PM today to 6:00 AM AKST Saturday.
• Heavy Freezing Spray Warning: In effect from 9:00 PM this evening to 6:00 AM AKST Saturday, February 21.