Heavy Freezing Spray and Gale Warnings Issued for Yakutat Bay

Alert Details

The National Weather Service in Juneau, AK, has issued a Heavy Freezing Spray Warning for Yakutat Bay. This alert is issued alongside a Gale Warning and a subsequent Small Craft Advisory for the region.

Affected Areas

This warning specifically impacts Yakutat Bay (PKZ053).

What You Should Do

Mariners are advised to take immediate precautions for dangerous ice accumulation on vessels. The NWS recommends the following actions:

• Remain in port if possible.
• Avoid the warning area or conduct mitigation efforts.
• Seek safe harbor and alter courses to avoid hazardous conditions.
• Secure vessels for high winds and freezing spray.

Expected Conditions

• Freezing Spray: Heavy freezing spray is expected at a rate of 2 cm per hour or greater, which may lead to rapid ice accumulation on decks and superstructures. This can cause a catastrophic loss of vessel stability and render mechanical or electronic components inoperative.
• Wind: Northeast winds of 25 to 35 knots are expected during the Gale Warning, with gusts reaching up to 45 knots.
• Seas: Strong winds will create hazardous seas that could capsize or damage vessels and significantly reduce visibility.

Timeline

• Heavy Freezing Spray Warning: Effective from 9:00 PM AKST Monday to 3:00 AM AKST Tuesday.
• Gale Warning: In effect until 12:00 PM AKST Tuesday.
• Small Craft Advisory: A secondary advisory is in effect from 12:00 PM to 6:00 PM AKST Tuesday.