Heavy Freezing Spray Warning Issued for Upper Michigan Coastal Waters

Alert Details

A Heavy Freezing Spray Warning has been issued by the National Weather Service in Marquette, MI. This warning is in effect alongside a Small Craft Advisory for the region’s coastal waters.

Affected Areas

The warning covers the following geographic regions in Michigan:

• Upper Entrance of Portage Canal to Eagle River MI
• Eagle River to Manitou Island MI

What You Should Do

Mariners are advised to prepare for dangerous accumulations of ice on their vessels. If possible, remain in port or avoid the warning area entirely. If navigation is necessary, conduct mitigation efforts to manage ice. Inexperienced mariners, particularly those operating smaller vessels, should avoid navigating in these hazardous conditions.

Expected Conditions

• Freezing Spray: Heavy freezing spray is expected at a rate of 2 cm per hour or greater.
• Wind: Northwest winds between 15 to 25 knots, with gusts reaching up to 30 knots.
• Waves: Significant wave heights of 6 to 9 feet are occurring.
• Hazards: Rapid ice accretion on decks and superstructures may lead to a catastrophic loss of vessel stability. Freezing spray can also render mechanical and electronic components inoperative.

Timeline

• Heavy Freezing Spray Warning: Effective from 1:00 AM EST to 4:00 PM EST Wednesday, February 25.
• Small Craft Advisory: Remains in effect until 1:00 AM EST Thursday, February 26.