Heavy Freezing Spray and Gale Warnings Issued for Western Lake Superior

Alert Details

The National Weather Service (NWS) office in Marquette, MI, has issued a Heavy Freezing Spray Warning and a Gale Warning for the open waters of Lake Superior. These alerts indicate a high risk to maritime safety due to freezing temperatures and strong winds.

Affected Areas

The warning is specifically in effect for Lake Superior, west of a line extending from Manitou Island to Marquette, MI, for areas beyond 5 nautical miles from the shore.

What You Should Do

Mariners are urged to prepare for dangerous ice accumulation on their vessels. The NWS recommends that vessels remain in port if possible. Those currently at sea should avoid the warning area, seek safe harbor, alter course, or take immediate mitigation steps to secure the vessel for hazardous conditions.

Expected Conditions

• Freezing Spray: Heavy freezing spray is expected at a rate of 2 cm per hour or greater. This can lead to rapid ice accretion on decks and superstructures, which may result in a catastrophic loss of vessel stability and render mechanical or electronic components inoperative.
• Wind and Waves: Northwest winds of 20 to 25 knots are expected, with gusts reaching up to 35 knots. These winds will produce hazardous waves between 3 to 6 feet, which could damage or capsize vessels and significantly reduce visibility.

Timeline

• Heavy Freezing Spray Warning: In effect from 1:00 AM to 4:00 PM EST on Wednesday, February 25.
• Gale Warning: In effect from 1:00 AM to 1:00 PM EST on Wednesday, February 25.