Storm Warning and Heavy Freezing Spray Warning Issued for Manitou Island to Point Isabelle MI

Alert Details

The National Weather Service (NWS) in Marquette, MI, has issued a Storm Warning and a Heavy Freezing Spray Warning for the coastal waters of Lake Superior. These alerts indicate severe marine conditions that pose a significant threat to vessel safety.

Affected Areas

The warnings specifically cover the area from Manitou Island to Point Isabelle, MI.

Expected Conditions

Mariners should prepare for the following hazardous conditions as reported by the NWS:

• Winds: West winds sustained at 30 to 40 knots, with gusts reaching up to 50 knots.
• Waves: Significant wave heights of 5 to 8 feet are expected.
• Freezing Spray: Heavy freezing spray is forecast to accumulate at a rate of 2 cm per hour or greater, which may rapidly build up on vessels.

Timeline

• Storm Warning: Effective from 1:00 PM Friday until 7:00 AM EST Saturday.
• Heavy Freezing Spray Warning: Effective from 10:00 PM Friday until 4:00 PM EST Saturday.

What You Should Do

The NWS advises that operating a vessel in these conditions is extremely hazardous. Heavy freezing spray can cause mechanical and electronic components to fail and lead to rapid ice accretion on decks and superstructures, potentially resulting in a catastrophic loss of stability. Storm-force winds and high waves may capsize or damage vessels and significantly reduce visibility.

Mariners are strongly urged to:

• Remain in port if possible.
• Avoid the warning area entirely.
• Alter course or secure vessels for severe conditions.
• Prepare for dangerous ice accumulation and conduct mitigation if necessary.