Heavy Freezing Spray Warning Issued for Valdez Narrows Through Tuesday Afternoon
The National Weather Service has issued a Heavy Freezing Spray Warning for Valdez Narrows, with north winds up to 35 knots and significant icing expected through Tuesday.
Alert Details
The National Weather Service (NWS) Anchorage AK has issued a Heavy Freezing Spray Warning for the Valdez Narrows. The alert was issued early Monday morning as hazardous maritime conditions are expected to impact the region.
Affected Areas
This warning specifically impacts the following geographic area:
- Valdez Narrows (Marine Zone PKZ721)
What You Should Do
According to the National Weather Service, maritime operators and residents should avoid the warning area. Heavy freezing spray can cause rapid ice accumulation on vessels, which significantly increases the risk of capsizing or equipment failure.
Expected Conditions
Forecasters are tracking the following conditions for the Valdez Narrows:
- Wind: North winds at 30 knots today, increasing to 35 knots tonight and through Tuesday.
- Seas: Average wave heights of 4 feet are expected through Tuesday morning, subsiding to 3 feet by Tuesday night.
- Hazard: Heavy freezing spray is expected to occur throughout the period due to the combination of strong winds and cold temperatures.
Timeline
- Effective: 3:30 AM AKST, Monday, March 2, 2026
- Onset: 3:00 AM AKST, Monday, March 2, 2026
- Duration: The warning remains in effect until the event concludes at 5:00 PM AKST on Tuesday, March 3, 2026.
Source: NOAA Official Notice