Heavy Freezing Spray Warning Issued for Stephens Passage and Southeast Alaska Inside Waters

Alert Details

The National Weather Service in Juneau, AK, has issued a Heavy Freezing Spray Warning for the Southeast Alaska Inside Waters. This alert is classified as a severe meteorological event with a high likelihood of occurrence.

Affected Areas

The warning specifically covers Stephens Passage and the Southeast Alaska Inside Waters extending from Dixon Entrance to Skagway. The most significant impacts are expected near Taku Inlet.

What You Should Do

Mariners and residents in the affected regions are advised to avoid the area during the warning period. The hazardous conditions pose a significant risk to maritime safety and vessel stability due to ice accumulation.

Expected Conditions

• Wind: North winds are expected at 40 knots, with gusts reaching up to 55 knots particularly out of Taku Inlet.
• Seas: Average sea heights of 14 feet are forecast.
• Hazard: Heavy freezing spray is expected, primarily concentrated near Taku Inlet. Conditions are also under a Gale Warning through Sunday.

Timeline

The Heavy Freezing Spray Warning is effective starting at 5:00 PM AKST on Saturday, February 21, 2026. The warning is currently scheduled to remain in effect until 5:00 AM AKST on Sunday, February 22, 2026. Conditions are expected to transition to light freezing spray by Sunday night.