Heavy Freezing Spray and Gale Warning Issued for Lake Superior Coastal Regions

Alert Details

The National Weather Service in Duluth, MN, has issued a Heavy Freezing Spray Warning and a Gale Warning for specific coastal waters of Lake Superior. These alerts indicate a high likelihood of hazardous maritime conditions that pose a significant threat to vessel stability and safety.

Affected Areas

The following geographic regions are included in the warning area:

• Minnesota: Taconite Harbor to Silver Bay Harbor
• Wisconsin: Sand Island to Bayfield, and Oak Point to Saxon Harbor
• Apostle Islands: Outer Apostle Islands Beyond 5 NM from Mainland

What You Should Do

Mariners are strongly advised to remain in port or avoid the warning area entirely. If currently at sea, seek safe harbor, alter course, and secure the vessel for hazardous conditions. Prepare for dangerous ice accumulation on decks and superstructures. Freezing spray may render mechanical and electronic components inoperative.

Expected Conditions

• Wind: North winds between 25 to 35 knots, with gusts reaching up to 40 knots.
• Waves: Significant wave heights ranging from 9 to 14 feet are expected.
• Ice Accretion: Heavy freezing spray is forecast at a rate of 2 cm per hour or greater, which may rapidly accumulate on vessels.
• Impacts: Rapid ice buildup can cause a catastrophic loss of vessel stability. Strong winds and high waves could capsize or damage vessels and significantly reduce visibility.

Timeline

• Gale Warning: In effect from 4:00 AM Sunday to 4:00 PM CDT Monday.
• Heavy Freezing Spray Warning: In effect from 7:00 AM Sunday to 4:00 PM CDT Monday.