Heavy Freezing Spray Warning Issued for Northern Lynn Canal and Southeast Alaska Waters

Alert Details

The National Weather Service (NWS) in Juneau, Alaska, has issued a Heavy Freezing Spray Warning for the Southeast Alaska Inside Waters. This alert is in effect from Tuesday evening through early Wednesday morning. A Gale Warning is also in effect through this evening.

Affected Areas

The warning specifically covers the Northern Lynn Canal and the Southeast Alaska Inside Waters extending from Dixon Entrance to Skagway (UGC: PKZ012).

What You Should Do

Mariners and those operating in the affected coastal waters are advised to avoid these areas if possible. Heavy freezing spray can lead to significant ice accumulation on vessels, which may impact stability and safety. Operators should monitor weather updates and ensure all safety equipment is accessible.

Expected Conditions

For Tuesday night, forecasters expect North winds of 35 knots, gradually diminishing to 30 knots. Sea heights are expected to reach approximately 9 feet. These conditions, combined with cold temperatures, will result in heavy freezing spray.

Looking ahead, conditions are expected to remain hazardous. Light freezing spray is forecast for Wednesday morning as winds diminish to 15-25 knots. However, a significant increase in wind is expected later in the week, with North gales reaching 45 knots on Friday and storm-force winds up to 50 knots possible by Saturday and Sunday.

Timeline

The Heavy Freezing Spray Warning is effective as of 5:25 PM AKST on Tuesday, February 17, and is scheduled to expire at 5:00 AM AKST on Wednesday, February 18.