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

Weather Alerts high NOAA · · Southwest Alaska

The National Weather Service in Anchorage has issued a Heavy Freezing Spray Warning for coastal waters from Port Heiden to Nelson Lagoon, effective through Thursday afternoon.

Alert Details

The National Weather Service (NWS) Anchorage AK has issued a Heavy Freezing Spray Warning for the coastal waters of Southwest Alaska. This alert is currently in effect and is scheduled to remain active until Thursday afternoon.

Affected Areas

The warning specifically covers the region from Port Heiden to Nelson Lagoon, extending from 15 to 60 nautical miles out. This includes the forecast zone PKZ757.

What You Should Do

Official guidance from the NWS recommends that mariners avoid the affected area if possible. Heavy freezing spray can cause rapid ice accumulation on vessels, which poses a significant risk to ship stability and safety. Mariners currently in the area should monitor conditions closely and take necessary precautions to mitigate ice buildup.

Expected Conditions

According to the Coastal Waters Forecast, the following conditions are anticipated for the warning area:

  • Tonight: Northwest winds at 30 knots with seas reaching 8 feet. Snow showers and heavy freezing spray are expected.
  • Thursday: North winds at 20 knots with seas around 7 feet. Heavy freezing spray will continue through the day.
  • Thursday Night: Conditions are expected to transition to lighter freezing spray with northeast winds at 20 knots and 5-foot seas.

Timeline

The Heavy Freezing Spray Warning is effective immediately and is set to expire at 5:00 PM AKST on Thursday, February 26, 2026.

Source: NOAA Official Notice