Heavy Freezing Spray Warning Issued for Port Heiden to Nelson Lagoon Through Friday

Alert Details

The National Weather Service (NWS) Anchorage AK has issued a Heavy Freezing Spray Warning for the coastal waters of Southwest Alaska. The alert was issued at 3:27 AM AKST on February 26 and remains in effect until 5:00 PM AKST on February 27.

Affected Areas

The warning specifically impacts the maritime region from Port Heiden to Nelson Lagoon, extending out to 15 nautical miles.

What You Should Do

Mariners and vessel operators are advised to avoid the warning area. Heavy freezing spray can lead to significant ice accumulation on vessels, which may compromise stability and create hazardous operating conditions. Residents and commercial interests should monitor updated forecasts from NWS Anchorage.

Expected Conditions

Dangerous maritime conditions are forecast for the duration of the alert:

• Thursday: North winds at 20 knots with seas reaching 7 feet. Heavy freezing spray is expected.
• Thursday Night: Northeast winds increasing to 25 knots with 5-foot seas and continued heavy freezing spray.
• Friday: Northeast winds reaching 30 knots with seas building to 8 feet. Heavy freezing spray will persist.
• Extended Outlook: Northeast winds of 25 to 30 knots and seas between 6 and 7 feet are expected to continue from Saturday through Monday.

Timeline

• Effective Period: February 26, 2026, at 3:27 AM AKST until February 27, 2026, at 5:00 PM AKST.
• Additional Advisories: A Small Craft Advisory is also in effect for tonight and Friday due to elevated wind speeds and sea heights.