Heavy Freezing Spray Warning Issued for Port of Valdez Through Thursday Morning
NWS Anchorage has issued a Heavy Freezing Spray Warning for the Port of Valdez, effective until February 26, with wind gusts up to 55 knots and heavy snow expected.
Alert Details
The National Weather Service (NWS) Anchorage AK has issued a Heavy Freezing Spray Warning for the Port of Valdez. This alert is classified as severe, indicating that hazardous conditions are likely to occur within the specified maritime zone.
Affected Areas
The primary area affected is the Port of Valdez (PKZ720). The broader coastal waters forecast includes the Northern Gulf of Alaska Coast up to 100 nm out, including Kodiak Island and Cook Inlet.
What You Should Do
Mariners are advised to avoid the warning area. Heavy freezing spray can lead to significant ice accumulation on vessels, which poses a serious threat to vessel stability and safety. Monitor local maritime forecasts for updates.
Expected Conditions
According to the NWS, the following conditions are expected in the Port of Valdez:
- Today: Northeast winds at 35 knots with gusts reaching up to 55 knots. Seas are forecast at 6 feet. Snow and heavy freezing spray are expected.
- Tonight: Northeast winds at 30 knots with gusts up to 50 knots. Seas will remain at 6 feet with continued snow and heavy freezing spray.
- Thursday: East winds at 25 knots with gusts to 35 knots. Seas will be approximately 5 feet with freezing spray conditions persisting.
Timeline
The Heavy Freezing Spray Warning is effective as of 3:16 AM AKST on Wednesday, February 25, 2026. The warning is currently set to expire at 5:00 AM AKST on Thursday, February 26, 2026.
Source: NOAA Official Notice