Storm Warning Issued for Chiniak Bay: Winds Up to 50 Knots and Freezing Spray Expected

Alert Details

A Storm Warning has been issued by the National Weather Service (NWS) Anchorage AK. The alert is currently effective and remains in place until 5:00 AM AKST on February 20, 2026.

Affected Areas

The primary geographic region impacted by this warning is Chiniak Bay (PKZ736) in the Northern Gulf of Alaska.

What You Should Do

Residents and mariners are advised to avoid the affected coastal waters. Ensure all vessels are properly secured and monitor local weather updates for changes in conditions. The NWS recommends taking immediate action to protect life and property in the warning area.

Expected Conditions

Conditions are expected to deteriorate significantly over the next 48 hours:

• Wind Speed: Northwest winds will increase to 30 knots on Thursday, further intensifying to 35–50 knots on Thursday night.
• Wind Gusts: Gusts are expected to reach 45 knots on Thursday and peak at 60 knots overnight Thursday into Friday.
• Sea States: Average wave heights will reach 5 feet on Thursday and increase to 8 feet by Thursday night.
• Additional Hazards: Freezing spray is forecast for Thursday night as winds and seas peak.

Timeline

• Effective Period: From February 18 at 3:21 PM AKST.
• Peak Intensity: Thursday night through early Friday morning.
• Expiration: The warning is currently scheduled to end at 5:00 AM AKST on Friday, February 20, 2026.