Storm Warning Issued for Southeast Alaska Coastal Waters Near Cape Spencer

Weather Alerts high NOAA · · Southeast Alaska Coastal Waters

The National Weather Service has issued a storm warning for Southeast Alaska coastal waters, with winds expected to reach 50 knots and seas up to 13 feet through Saturday morning.

Alert Details

A Storm Warning has been issued by the National Weather Service (NWS) Juneau AK. The warning is effective starting at 5:00 PM AKST on Friday, February 20, and is currently scheduled to remain in effect until 5:00 AM AKST on Saturday, February 21.

Affected Areas

The primary alert area covers the coastal waters from Cape Spencer to Cape Fairweather out to 15 nautical miles. The broader forecast area includes Southeast Alaska Coastal Waters from Dixon Entrance to Cape Suckling out 100 nautical miles.

What You Should Do

Mariners and residents in the affected regions are advised to avoid the warning area. The NWS recommends taking necessary precautions to secure vessels and property against high winds and heavy seas.

Expected Conditions

Conditions are expected to deteriorate throughout Friday. For today, East winds of 25 knots will become Northeast at 35 knots, with seas reaching 13 feet and snow showers occurring early in the morning. By tonight, Northeast winds are forecast to increase to 50 knots with seas at 12 feet. On Saturday, Northeast gales up to 40 knots are expected with gusts reaching 55 knots and light freezing spray. Seas will remain high, ranging from 10 to 11 feet through Sunday.

Timeline

  • Onset: Friday, February 20 at 5:00 PM AKST
  • Peak Conditions: Friday night with 50-knot winds
  • Expiration: Saturday, February 21 at 5:00 AM AKST
  • Extended Outlook: Gale conditions (40 knots) are expected to persist through Sunday.

Source: NOAA Official Notice