Heavy Freezing Spray Warning Issued for Northwest Prince William Sound

Alert Details

The National Weather Service (NWS) in Anchorage, AK, has issued a Heavy Freezing Spray Warning for the Northwest Prince William Sound region. This alert is effective starting at 5:00 AM AKST on Wednesday, February 25, and is scheduled to remain in place until 5:00 AM AKST on Thursday, February 26. Additionally, a Gale Warning is in effect for the area through Wednesday night.

Affected Areas

The primary geographic area impacted by this warning is the Northwest Prince William Sound (PKZ724). This includes coastal waters within the Northern Gulf of Alaska Coast forecast zone.

What You Should Do

Mariners and vessel operators are advised to avoid travel in the warning area during the effective period. Heavy freezing spray can cause rapid ice accumulation on vessels, which poses a significant risk to ship stability and safety.

Expected Conditions

The NWS reports the following conditions for the duration of the warning:

• Wind: Northwest winds reaching speeds of 40 knots.
• Seas: Average wave heights of approximately 9 feet.
• Hazard: Heavy freezing spray is expected to develop on Wednesday and persist through Wednesday night.

Timeline

• Onset: Wednesday, February 25, at 5:00 AM AKST.
• Peak Conditions: Heavy freezing spray and 40-knot winds are expected throughout Wednesday and Wednesday night.
• Expiration: The warning is set to expire at 5:00 AM AKST on Thursday, February 26, as winds are expected to decrease to 25 knots and seas subside to 4 feet.