Heavy Freezing Spray Warning Issued for Shelikof Strait Through Tuesday Afternoon

Alert Details

The National Weather Service (NWS) Anchorage AK has issued a Heavy Freezing Spray Warning for the Shelikof Strait. This alert is currently in effect and remains active until Tuesday afternoon.

Affected Areas

The primary geographic region impacted by this warning is the Shelikof Strait (PKZ738). This area is part of the coastal waters forecast for the Northern Gulf of Alaska Coast, extending up to 100 nm out.

What You Should Do

Mariners and vessel operators are advised to avoid the warning area if possible. The NWS recommends taking necessary precautions as heavy freezing spray can lead to rapid ice accumulation on vessels, which may impact stability and safety.

Expected Conditions

Conditions in the Shelikof Strait are expected to be hazardous through the middle of the week:

• Today and Tonight: Northwest winds of 40 knots with seas ranging from 8 to 9 feet. Heavy freezing spray is expected.
• Tuesday: Northwest winds of 35 knots with 7-foot seas. Extreme freezing spray is forecast at a rate of 4 cm per hour or greater, which may rapidly accumulate on vessels.
• Extended Outlook: Conditions will remain rough through Wednesday with northwest winds of 30 knots and 6-foot seas.

Timeline

• Effective Date: March 9, 2026, at 4:22 AM AKDT
• Onset: March 9, 2026, at 4:00 AM AKDT
• Expiration: March 10, 2026, at 5:00 PM AKDT