Heavy Freezing Spray Warning Issued for Valdez Narrows Through Saturday Afternoon

Alert Details

The National Weather Service (NWS) Anchorage AK has issued a Heavy Freezing Spray Warning for the Valdez Narrows. This alert is classified as severe with a high level of certainty, indicating that hazardous maritime conditions are expected to develop.

Affected Areas

This warning specifically impacts the Valdez Narrows (PKZ721). The broader coastal waters forecast for the Northern Gulf of Alaska Coast, including Kodiak Island and Cook Inlet, also notes significant wind and sea activity during this period.

What You Should Do

According to the National Weather Service, the recommended response is to avoid the area. Mariners should take necessary precautions to protect vessels from ice accumulation, which can significantly impact stability and safety.

Expected Conditions

Conditions in the Valdez Narrows are expected to deteriorate as follows:

• Tonight: North winds at 45 knots with seas reaching 4 feet. Heavy freezing spray is expected.
• Saturday: North winds at 40 knots with seas remaining at 4 feet. Heavy freezing spray will continue through the afternoon.
• Current Conditions (Today): North winds at 50 knots and seas at 5 feet with freezing spray already present.

Timeline

• Effective/Onset: Friday, February 20, 2026, at 5:00 PM AKST
• Expiration: Saturday, February 21, 2026, at 5:00 PM AKST

Conditions are expected to improve by Saturday night, with winds decreasing to 30 knots and seas subsiding to 3 feet.