Heavy Freezing Spray and Gale Warnings Issued for Grand Marais to Taconite Harbor MN

Alert Details

The National Weather Service in Duluth, MN, has issued a Heavy Freezing Spray Warning and a Gale Warning for the coastal waters of Lake Superior. These alerts indicate significant hazards for maritime activities due to rapid ice accumulation and strong winds.

Affected Areas

The warning specifically covers the region from Grand Marais to Taconite Harbor, MN.

What You Should Do

Mariners are strongly advised to prepare for dangerous accumulation of ice on their vessels. If possible, remain in port or avoid the warning area entirely. Those currently at sea should seek safe harbor, alter course to avoid hazardous conditions, and secure their vessels. Mitigation efforts should be conducted to manage ice buildup.

Expected Conditions

• Freezing Spray: Heavy spray is expected at a rate of 2 cm per hour or greater, which may rapidly accumulate on decks and superstructures.
• Wind: North winds of 20 to 30 knots are forecast, with gusts reaching up to 45 knots.
• Waves: Wave heights are expected to range between 5 and 8 feet.
• Impacts: Operating a vessel in these conditions is hazardous. Ice accretion can render mechanical and electronic components inoperative and may lead to a catastrophic loss of vessel stability. Strong winds and high waves could capsize or damage vessels while significantly reducing visibility.

Timeline

• Gale Warning: Effective from 4:00 AM Sunday, March 15, to 1:00 AM CDT Tuesday, March 17.
• Heavy Freezing Spray Warning: Effective from 7:00 AM Sunday, March 15, to 4:00 PM CDT Monday, March 16.