Heavy Freezing Spray Warning Issued for Northern Gulf of Alaska Coast Through Saturday

Alert Details

A Heavy Freezing Spray Warning has been issued by the National Weather Service in Anchorage, AK. This alert is currently in effect and is scheduled to remain active through Saturday afternoon.

Affected Areas

The warning covers the coastal waters of the Northern Gulf of Alaska, specifically from Cape Suckling to Gravel Point out to 15 NM. This includes areas near the Copper River Delta.

What You Should Do

Mariners are advised to avoid the warning area. Extreme freezing spray can rapidly accumulate on vessels at a rate of 4 cm per hour or greater, which can significantly impact vessel stability and safety. Residents and operators in the region should monitor local conditions and heed all maritime safety protocols.

Expected Conditions

• Winds: North winds are expected at 55 knots today, with gusts reaching up to 70 knots out of the Copper River Delta. Winds will remain high through Saturday, ranging from 40 to 50 knots.
• Seas: Wave heights are forecast at 10 feet today, subsiding slightly to 8 feet tonight and 7 feet on Saturday.
• Freezing Spray: Heavy freezing spray is expected today. Conditions will escalate tonight and Saturday morning to extreme freezing spray, with accumulation rates of 4 cm per hour or greater possible near the Copper River Delta.

Timeline

• Effective Date: Friday, February 20, 2026, at 4:33 AM AKST
• Expiration Date: Saturday, February 21, 2026, at 5:00 PM AKST