Storm Warning Issued for West of Barren Islands and Kamishak Bay Through Friday

Alert Details

A Storm Warning has been issued by the National Weather Service (NWS) Anchorage AK. The alert is effective from 5:00 PM AKST on Thursday, February 19, 2026, until 5:00 PM AKST on Friday, February 20, 2026.

Affected Areas

The warning specifically covers the West of Barren Islands Including Kamishak Bay (PKZ730).

What You Should Do

The National Weather Service recommends that individuals avoid the area. Mariners should be aware that extreme freezing spray at a rate of 4 cm per hour or greater may rapidly accumulate on vessels, creating hazardous conditions.

Expected Conditions

• Winds: Northwest winds are expected to reach 45 knots today, increasing to 60 knots tonight. Winds will remain high on Friday at 50 knots before gradually decreasing to 40 knots Friday night.
• Seas: Wave heights are forecast at 15 feet today, peaking at 19 feet tonight. Seas will remain at 14 feet on Friday.
• Freezing Spray: Extreme freezing spray is expected tonight and Friday morning, with accumulation rates of 4 cm per hour or greater.

Timeline

• Onset: Thursday, February 19, at 5:00 PM AKST
• Duration: The warning remains in effect until Friday, February 20, at 5:00 PM AKST.
• Outlook: Conditions are expected to improve by Saturday with winds decreasing to 30 knots and seas subsiding to 10 feet.