Heavy Freezing Spray Warning Issued for Valdez Narrows Through Sunday Morning

Alert Details

The National Weather Service (NWS) Anchorage AK has issued a Heavy Freezing Spray Warning for the Valdez Narrows. This alert, classified under the NWS code UPW, indicates that conditions are likely to cause significant ice accumulation on vessels in the region.

Affected Areas

The warning specifically targets the Valdez Narrows (PKZ721). This area is part of the Coastal Waters Forecast for the Northern Gulf of Alaska Coast, extending up to 100 nautical miles out, including the waters near Kodiak Island and Cook Inlet.

What You Should Do

Operating authorities advise mariners to avoid the area during the warning period. Heavy freezing spray can lead to rapid ice accumulation on vessel superstructures, which poses a severe risk to ship stability and the functionality of essential equipment.

Expected Conditions

Weather conditions in the Valdez Narrows will feature north winds sustained at 30 knots with seas reaching 3 feet. These conditions are forecast to persist through Saturday night, creating an environment conducive to heavy freezing spray. While wind speeds are expected to decrease slightly to 25 knots on Sunday night and 20 knots by Tuesday, the immediate threat remains high through the weekend.

Timeline

The Heavy Freezing Spray Warning is effective starting at 5:00 AM AKST on Saturday, February 28, 2026. The warning is currently scheduled to remain in effect until 5:00 AM AKST on Sunday, March 1, 2026.