Heavy Freezing Spray Warning Issued for Northern Lynn Canal Through Friday

Alert Details

The National Weather Service (NWS) in Juneau has issued a Heavy Freezing Spray Warning for the Northern Lynn Canal. This alert is issued in conjunction with a Gale Warning and a subsequent Small Craft Advisory for the region.

Affected Areas

The primary geographic region affected is the Northern Lynn Canal (PKZ012).

What You Should Do

Mariners are urged to prepare for dangerous ice accumulation on their vessels. The NWS recommends remaining in port, avoiding the warning area, or conducting immediate mitigation. Mariners should alter plans to avoid these hazardous conditions by seeking safe harbor, altering course, or securing the vessel for severe weather.

Expected Conditions

• Freezing Spray: Heavy freezing spray is expected at a rate of 2 cm per hour or greater, which may rapidly accumulate on vessels.
• Wind Speeds: North winds of 25 to 40 knots are forecast, with gusts reaching up to 45 knots during the Gale Warning period. Winds of 20 to 30 knots with gusts to 35 knots are expected during the Small Craft Advisory.
• Impacts: Operating a vessel in these conditions is hazardous. Ice accretion on decks and superstructures may result in a catastrophic loss of stability. Additionally, freezing spray can render mechanical and electronic components inoperative, while strong winds will cause hazardous seas and reduced visibility.

Timeline

• Heavy Freezing Spray Warning: Effective from 6:00 PM AKST Thursday, February 26, until 12:00 PM AKST Friday, February 27.
• Gale Warning: In effect until 6:00 AM AKST Friday.
• Small Craft Advisory: Effective from 6:00 AM to 12:00 PM AKST Friday.