Storm Warning Issued for Yakutat Bay

Alert Details

The National Weather Service (NWS) in Juneau has issued a Storm Warning for Yakutat Bay. This alert is preceded by a Gale Warning as conditions are expected to deteriorate significantly over the next 24 hours.

Affected Areas

The primary geographic region affected by this alert is Yakutat Bay.

What You Should Do

Mariners are urged to take immediate safety precautions. The NWS recommends that mariners remain in port, alter course to avoid the hazardous area, and/or secure their vessels for severe conditions. The response level for this event is categorized as “Avoid.”

Expected Conditions

Weather conditions will involve high winds and significant wave heights:

• Gale Conditions: Northeast winds of 30 to 40 knots with gusts up to 55 knots.
• Storm Conditions: Northeast winds of 35 to 45 knots with gusts reaching up to 65 knots.
• Seas: Wave heights are expected to range between 7 and 10 feet.

These storm-force winds and hazardous seas are capable of capsizing or damaging vessels and will likely cause reduced visibility for those on the water.

Timeline

• Gale Warning: Effective from midnight tonight until 9:00 AM AKST Friday, February 20.
• Storm Warning: Effective from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM AKST Friday, February 20.