Storm Warning Issued for Yakutat Bay: Winds Up to 50 Knots and Heavy Seas Expected

Alert Details

The National Weather Service (NWS) office in Juneau, Alaska, has issued a Storm Warning for the Yakutat Bay region. The warning is in effect starting Friday morning, February 20, 2026, as hazardous maritime conditions develop in the area.

Affected Areas

The primary area impacted by this alert is Yakutat Bay (PKZ053). Specific storm-force conditions are also forecasted for the waters out of Disenchantment Bay.

What You Should Do

Residents and mariners are advised to avoid the affected coastal waters during the warning period. The NWS recommends taking necessary precautions to secure vessels and equipment against high winds and heavy seas.

Expected Conditions

On Friday, northeast winds are expected to reach 45 knots in Yakutat Bay, while winds out of Disenchantment Bay are forecasted to reach storm force at 50 knots. Wind gusts are expected to reach up to 65 knots. Sea heights are predicted to reach 11 feet. Additionally, light freezing spray is anticipated throughout the day and into Friday night, which can cause ice accumulation on vessels.

Timeline

The Storm Warning is scheduled to begin at 5:00 AM AKST on Friday, February 20, 2026. The alert is currently set to remain in effect until 5:00 PM AKST on Friday. Hazardous conditions, including gale-force winds and freezing spray, are expected to persist into Saturday.