Storm Warning and Heavy Freezing Spray Warning Issued for Minnesota North Shore Waters

Alert Details

The National Weather Service in Duluth, MN, has issued a Storm Warning and a Heavy Freezing Spray Warning for the coastal waters of Lake Superior. These alerts indicate severe maritime conditions that pose a significant threat to vessel safety and stability.

Affected Areas

The warnings cover the Minnesota North Shore from Grand Portage to Taconite Harbor, specifically including:

• Grand Portage to Grand Marais, MN
• Grand Marais to Taconite Harbor, MN

What You Should Do

Mariners are strongly advised to remain in port or seek safe harbor. If currently at sea, alter course to avoid the warning area or take immediate mitigation steps to secure the vessel for severe conditions. Residents and mariners should prepare for dangerous accumulation of ice on decks and superstructures.

Expected Conditions

• Winds: West winds between 20 to 30 knots are expected, with gusts reaching up to 45 knots.
• Waves: Significant wave heights of 3 to 6 feet are forecast.
• Freezing Spray: Heavy freezing spray is expected to accumulate at a rate of 2 centimeters per hour or greater.
• Hazards: Storm-force winds and hazardous waves may capsize or damage vessels and significantly reduce visibility. Rapid ice accretion can lead to a catastrophic loss of vessel stability and render mechanical or electronic components inoperative.

Timeline

• Storm Warning: In effect from 12:00 PM Friday to 12:00 AM CST Friday night.
• Heavy Freezing Spray Warning: In effect from 6:00 PM Friday to 4:00 AM CST Saturday.