Storm Warning and Heavy Freezing Spray Warning Issued for Lake Superior and Upper Michigan Coast

Alert Details

The National Weather Service in Marquette, MI, has issued a Storm Warning and a Heavy Freezing Spray Warning for portions of Lake Superior and the Upper Michigan coastline. These alerts indicate severe maritime conditions that pose a significant threat to vessel safety.

Affected Areas

The warning covers the following geographic regions:

• Upper Entrance of Portage Canal to Eagle River, MI
• Eagle River to Manitou Island, MI
• Lake Superior from the Upper Entrance of Portage Canal to Manitou Island, MI, extending 5 nautical miles offshore to the US/Canadian Border.

Expected Conditions

• Wind: West winds between 30 to 40 knots are expected, with gusts reaching up to 50 knots.
• Waves: Significant wave heights of 11 to 16 feet are anticipated.
• Freezing Spray: Heavy freezing spray is expected to accumulate at a rate of 2 cm per hour or greater.
• Impacts: Operating a vessel in these conditions is extremely hazardous. Heavy freezing spray can cause rapid ice accretion on decks and superstructures, potentially leading to a catastrophic loss of stability. Additionally, storm-force winds and high waves may capsize or damage vessels and significantly reduce visibility.

Timeline

• Storm Warning: Effective from 1:00 PM EST Friday, February 27, until 7:00 AM EST Saturday, February 28.
• Heavy Freezing Spray Warning: Effective from 7:00 PM EST Friday, February 27, until 1:00 PM EST Saturday, February 28.

What You Should Do

Mariners are strongly advised to remain in port or alter course to avoid the warning area. Those currently at sea should secure their vessels for severe conditions and prepare for dangerous ice accumulation. If possible, conduct mitigation efforts to prevent mechanical and electronic components from becoming inoperative due to ice.