Storm Warning and Heavy Freezing Spray Warning Issued for Northern Gulf of Alaska Coast

Alert Details

A Storm Warning and a Heavy Freezing Spray Warning have been issued by the National Weather Service in Anchorage, AK. The alert is effective immediately, with the most severe storm conditions beginning Wednesday evening.

Affected Areas

The warning covers the coastal waters of the Northern Gulf of Alaska Coast, specifically from Cape Suckling to Gravel Point out to 15 nautical miles. This includes the area near the Copper River Delta.

What You Should Do

Official guidance recommends that mariners and residents avoid the affected maritime areas. The combination of high winds, significant wave heights, and heavy freezing spray creates extremely hazardous conditions for navigation and vessel safety.

Expected Conditions

Dangerous maritime conditions are forecast for the region:

• Wind Speed: North winds of 45 to 50 knots are expected.
• Wind Gusts: Peak gusts up to 65 knots are forecast out of the Copper River Delta.
• Seas: Average wave heights between 10 and 11 feet.
• Precipitation & Hazards: Snow is expected, along with heavy freezing spray which can cause significant ice accumulation on vessels.

Timeline

• Storm Warning Onset: 5:00 PM AKST, Wednesday, February 25, 2026.
• Storm Warning Expiration: 5:00 AM AKST, Thursday, February 26, 2026.
• Extended Outlook: Heavy freezing spray is expected to continue through Thursday, with winds gradually subsiding to 15-20 knots by Saturday and Sunday.