Heavy Freezing Spray Warning Issued for Valdez Narrows Through Saturday

Alert Details

The National Weather Service (NWS) office in Anchorage, AK, has issued a Heavy Freezing Spray Warning for the Valdez Narrows. The alert indicates that severe maritime conditions are likely, posing a significant hazard to vessels in the area.

Affected Areas

The primary geographic region impacted by this warning is the Valdez Narrows (PKZ721). This area is part of the Coastal Waters Forecast for the Northern Gulf of Alaska Coast, extending up to 100 nm out including Kodiak Island and Cook Inlet.

What You Should Do

According to the National Weather Service, the recommended response is to avoid the affected area. Mariners should take necessary precautions as heavy freezing spray can cause rapid ice accumulation on vessels, which can lead to dangerous stability issues and equipment failure.

Expected Conditions

Weather conditions in the Valdez Narrows are expected to be hazardous for maritime operations:

• Tonight: North winds of 50 knots, diminishing to 40 knots late. Seas are expected to be 4 feet with heavy freezing spray.
• Saturday: North winds of 40 knots and 4-foot seas will continue, maintaining heavy freezing spray conditions.
• Saturday Night: Winds will decrease to 30 knots with 3-foot seas, though freezing spray will persist.
• Extended Outlook: North winds are forecast to remain between 20 and 40 knots through Wednesday, with seas ranging from 3 to 4 feet.

Timeline

The Heavy Freezing Spray Warning is effective from 3:00 PM AKST on Friday, February 20, 2026. The warning is scheduled to remain in effect until 5:00 PM AKST on Saturday, February 21, 2026.