Heavy Freezing Spray Warning Issued for Port Wing and Apostle Islands Through Wednesday Morning

Alert Details

The National Weather Service in Duluth, MN, has issued a Heavy Freezing Spray Warning for portions of Lake Superior. This alert is issued in conjunction with a Small Craft Advisory currently in effect for the region.

Affected Areas

The warning specifically impacts the following maritime geographic regions:

• Port Wing to Sand Island, WI
• Outer Apostle Islands Beyond 5 NM from Mainland

What You Should Do

Mariners are urged to prepare for dangerous accumulation of ice on their vessels. The National Weather Service recommends that mariners remain in port if possible, avoid the warning area entirely, or conduct immediate mitigation efforts. Anyone operating a smaller vessel should avoid navigating in these hazardous conditions, as freezing spray may render mechanical and electronic components inoperative.

Expected Conditions

Heavy freezing spray is expected to accumulate at a rate of 2 centimeters per hour or greater. This rapid ice accretion on decks and superstructures may result in a catastrophic loss of vessel stability. In addition to the freezing spray, west winds of 15 to 25 knots are expected, with gusts up to 30 knots. Wave heights are forecast to reach between 2 and 5 feet.

Timeline

• Heavy Freezing Spray Warning: Effective from 9:00 PM CST Tuesday, February 24, until 8:00 AM CST Wednesday, February 25.
• Small Craft Advisory: Remains in effect until noon CST Wednesday, February 25.