Hurricane Force Wind Warning Issued for Barren Islands East, Alaska

Alert Details

The National Weather Service in Anchorage, AK, has issued a Hurricane Force Wind Warning for the Barren Islands East region. This alert is effective starting at 5:00 AM AKST on Wednesday, February 25, 2026, and is scheduled to remain in effect until 5:00 PM AKST the same day.

Affected Areas

The primary geographic area impacted by this warning is the Barren Islands East (PKZ731). This region is part of the coastal waters for the Northern Gulf of Alaska Coast, extending up to 100 nautical miles out, including areas near Kodiak Island and Cook Inlet.

What You Should Do

Mariners and residents in the affected area are advised to avoid the region. The National Weather Service recommends immediate response to avoid the extreme hazards posed by hurricane-force winds and rapid ice accumulation on vessels.

Expected Conditions

Extreme maritime conditions are expected throughout the day on Wednesday:

• Wind Speed: Northwest winds are forecast at 65 knots.
• Sea State: Seas are expected to reach heights of 17 feet.
• Freezing Spray: Heavy freezing spray is forecast. Extreme freezing spray may accumulate at a rate of 4 cm per hour or greater, which can lead to rapid ice buildup on vessels.
• Additional Hazards: Snow showers are expected tonight as winds remain high at 55 knots.

Timeline

• Onset: Wednesday, February 25, at 5:00 AM AKST.
• Duration: The Hurricane Force Wind Warning expires at 5:00 PM AKST on Wednesday.
• Extended Outlook: Winds will diminish to 55 knots tonight and 40 knots on Thursday. A Heavy Freezing Spray Warning remains in effect through Thursday.