Storm Warning Issued for Valdez Narrows; 50-Knot Winds and Freezing Spray Expected

Alert Details

The National Weather Service in Anchorage has issued a Storm Warning for the Valdez Narrows. The alert is currently in effect and remains active through Friday afternoon. A Heavy Freezing Spray Warning has also been noted for Friday night.

Affected Areas

The warning specifically impacts the Valdez Narrows (PKZ721) within the coastal waters of the Northern Gulf of Alaska coast.

What You Should Do

Mariners and residents are advised to avoid the affected waters. The National Weather Service recommends avoiding the area due to hazardous maritime conditions. Ensure all vessels are properly secured and monitor further updates from local weather offices.

Expected Conditions

Conditions are expected to deteriorate quickly.

• Tonight: North winds of 25 knots will increase to 50 knots after midnight. Seas are expected to build to 5 feet with freezing spray.
• Friday: North winds will remain at 50 knots with 5-foot seas and continued freezing spray.
• Friday Night: North winds will decrease slightly to 45 knots with 4-foot seas, but heavy freezing spray is expected.
• Extended Outlook: North winds will persist through the weekend, ranging from 40 knots on Saturday to 25 knots by Sunday, with seas between 3 and 4 feet.

Timeline

The Storm Warning is effective immediately and is scheduled to expire at 5:00 PM AKST on Friday, February 20, 2026.