Heavy Freezing Spray Warning Issued for Marquette to Munising MI Through Monday Morning

Alert Details

The National Weather Service (NWS) in Marquette, MI, has issued a Heavy Freezing Spray Warning for the coastal waters. This alert is accompanied by a Small Craft Advisory currently in effect and a Gale Watch scheduled for Sunday afternoon.

Affected Areas

The warning specifically impacts the region from Marquette to Munising, MI (Zone LSZ249).

Expected Conditions

• Freezing Spray: Heavy freezing spray is expected at a rate of 2 cm per hour or greater. This can lead to rapid ice accumulation on vessels.
• Wind and Waves:
  • During the Small Craft Advisory: Northwest winds of 15 to 20 knots with gusts up to 25 knots and waves up to 3 feet.
  • During the Gale Watch: North winds of 20 to 30 knots with gusts up to 35 knots and waves between 3 to 6 feet are possible.
• Hazards: Operating a vessel under these conditions is extremely hazardous. Rapid ice accretion on decks and superstructures may result in a catastrophic loss of stability. Additionally, freezing spray can render mechanical and electronic components inoperative.

Timeline

• Small Craft Advisory: In effect until 4:00 PM EST Saturday, February 21.
• Heavy Freezing Spray Warning: Effective from 1:00 PM EST Sunday, February 22, until 1:00 AM EST Monday, February 23.
• Gale Watch: Effective from Sunday afternoon through Monday morning.

What You Should Do

Mariners are strongly advised to prepare for dangerous ice accumulation. If possible, remain in port or avoid the warning area entirely. Those already at sea should conduct mitigation efforts, seek safe harbor, or alter course to avoid hazardous conditions. Ensure all vessels are properly secured for severe wind and waves.