Storm Warning and Heavy Freezing Spray Warning Issued for Lake Superior Near Marquette

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. These alerts indicate imminent hazardous conditions for maritime operations due to high winds and significant ice accumulation.

Affected Areas

The warning covers the following geographic regions:

• Huron Islands to Marquette, MI
• Lake Superior West of a line from Manitou Island to Marquette, MI, beyond 5NM from shore

What You Should Do

Mariners are strongly advised to remain in port or seek safe harbor immediately. If at sea, alter course to avoid the warning area and secure the vessel for severe conditions. Residents and operators should prepare for dangerous accumulation of ice on vessels and conduct necessary mitigation to prevent catastrophic loss of stability.

Expected Conditions

• Wind: West winds between 30 to 40 knots are expected, with gusts reaching up to 50 knots.
• Waves: Wave heights are forecast to reach between 3 to 6 feet.
• Ice Accumulation: Heavy freezing spray is expected at a rate of 2 cm per hour or greater. This may cause rapid ice accretion on decks and superstructures, potentially rendering mechanical and electronic components inoperative.
• Visibility: Storm force winds and hazardous waves are expected to significantly reduce visibility and create conditions capable of capsizing or damaging vessels.

Timeline

• Storm Warning: Effective from 1:00 PM Friday until 10:00 AM EST Saturday.
• Heavy Freezing Spray Warning: Effective from 10:00 PM Friday until 4:00 PM EST Saturday.