Storm Warning Issued for Adak to Kiska Pacific Side as 50-Knot Winds and 24-Foot Seas Approach

Alert Details

The National Weather Service (NWS) Anchorage AK has issued a Storm Warning for the coastal waters of the Aleutian Islands. The alert is currently effective as of February 25 and is scheduled to remain in place until 5:00 PM AKST on February 26, 2026.

Affected Areas

The warning specifically impacts the Adak to Kiska Pacific Side. This includes the coastal waters forecast for Southwest Alaska, Bristol Bay, the Alaska Peninsula Waters, and the Aleutian Islands up to 100 nautical miles out.

What You Should Do

According to the NWS, the recommended response is to avoid the affected areas. Mariners should take necessary precautions to secure vessels or seek safe harbor, as the expected conditions pose a significant threat to life and property at sea.

Expected Conditions

Conditions are forecast to intensify over the coming days:

• Winds: East winds are expected at 40 knots today, increasing to 45 knots tonight, and peaking at 50 knots on Thursday. Winds will shift to the northeast at 45 knots on Thursday night and remain at 40-45 knots through Saturday.
• Seas: Average wave heights will rise from 14 feet today to 20 feet tonight, reaching a peak of 24 feet on Thursday and Thursday night. Seas are expected to remain high at 21 feet through Saturday.
• Precipitation: Rain and snow are expected to accompany the high winds and heavy seas through Thursday.

Timeline

• Effective Date: February 25, 2026, at 3:30 AM AKST
• Onset of Peak Conditions: February 26, 2026, at 5:00 AM AKST
• Expiration: February 26, 2026, at 5:00 PM AKST
• Extended Outlook: High winds (40-45 knots) and elevated seas (16-21 feet) are expected to persist from Friday through Sunday.