Heavy Freezing Spray Warning Issued for Marmot Island to Sitkinak Waters

Alert Details

The National Weather Service in Anchorage, AK, has issued a Heavy Freezing Spray Warning for the coastal waters of the Northern Gulf of Alaska. The warning is effective from 5:00 AM AKST on Wednesday, February 25, through 5:00 PM AKST on Wednesday evening.

Affected Areas

The warning covers the marine zone from Marmot Island to Sitkinak, extending out to 15 nautical miles. This includes portions of the Northern Gulf of Alaska Coast near Kodiak Island.

What You Should Do

Mariners and vessel operators are advised to avoid the warning area during the specified timeframe. Heavy freezing spray can cause significant ice accumulation on vessels, which may lead to stability issues or capsizing. Monitor the latest marine forecasts for updates on sea conditions and wind speeds.

Expected Conditions

Conditions will become increasingly hazardous starting Tuesday night with Northwest winds of 40 knots and 10-foot seas. On Wednesday, Northwest winds are forecast to reach 45 knots with seas building to 11 feet, creating the environment for heavy freezing spray. Wind speeds are expected to peak at 50 knots on Wednesday night, with seas remaining high at 10 feet.

Timeline

• Tuesday Night: Northwest winds 40 kt, seas 10 ft, freezing spray begins.
• Wednesday Morning (5:00 AM AKST): Heavy Freezing Spray Warning begins; NW winds 45 kt, seas 11 ft.
• Wednesday Evening (5:00 PM AKST): Heavy Freezing Spray Warning expires.
• Wednesday Night: NW winds 50 kt, seas 10 ft.