Heavy Freezing Spray Warning Issued for Passage Canal and Northern Gulf of Alaska Coast

Alert Details

The National Weather Service in Anchorage, AK, has issued a Heavy Freezing Spray Warning for the Passage Canal region. This alert is issued in conjunction with a Gale Warning, highlighting hazardous maritime conditions for the area.

Affected Areas

The warning specifically covers Passage Canal and the coastal waters of the Northern Gulf of Alaska Coast up to 100 nautical miles out, including areas near Kodiak Island and Cook Inlet.

What You Should Do

Mariners and vessel operators are advised to avoid these waters during the warning period. Heavy freezing spray can cause rapid ice accumulation on vessels, which may lead to instability and dangerous operating conditions. Ensure all safety equipment is accessible and monitor updated forecasts from the NWS.

Expected Conditions

• Winds: West winds are expected to increase to 40 knots with gusts reaching up to 55 knots.
• Seas: Wave heights are forecast to build to approximately 6 feet.
• Icing: Heavy freezing spray is expected to develop after midnight on Tuesday and persist through Wednesday night.
• Extended Outlook: Winds will remain elevated at 30 knots on Thursday with 4-foot seas, though icing conditions are expected to diminish by Thursday morning.

Timeline

• Onset: 5:00 AM AKST, Wednesday, February 25, 2026
• Duration: The warning remains in effect until 5:00 AM AKST, Thursday, February 26, 2026.