Heavy Freezing Spray and Storm Warnings Issued for Michigan Coastal Waters Near Seul Choix Point

Alert Details

The National Weather Service in Marquette, MI, has issued a series of marine alerts, including a Heavy Freezing Spray Warning, a Storm Warning, and a Gale Warning. These alerts indicate severe conditions for mariners, with the potential for rapid ice accumulation and hazardous wind and wave conditions.

Affected Areas

The warning covers the following maritime regions:

• Seul Choix Point to Point Detour, MI
• 5NM East of a line from Fairport, MI, to Rock Island Passage

What You Should Do

Mariners are strongly advised to prepare for dangerous ice accumulation on their vessels. If possible, remain in port or avoid the warning area entirely. Those already at sea should conduct mitigation efforts, alter course, and secure the vessel for severe conditions. Rapid ice accretion on decks and superstructures may result in a catastrophic loss of stability.

Expected Conditions

• Freezing Spray: Heavy freezing spray is expected at a rate of 2 cm per hour or greater. This can render mechanical and electronic components inoperative.
• Wind: During the Storm Warning, north winds of 25 to 35 knots are expected, with gusts reaching up to 50 knots. Gale conditions will see east winds of 25 to 35 knots with gusts up to 45 knots.
• Waves: Wave heights are forecast between 7 to 12 feet. These hazardous waves and storm-force winds may capsize or damage vessels and significantly reduce visibility.

Timeline

• Gale Warning: Effective from 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM EDT on Sunday, March 15.
• Storm Warning: Effective from 8:00 PM Sunday, March 15, to 4:00 PM EDT Monday, March 16.
• Heavy Freezing Spray Warning: Effective from 2:00 AM Monday, March 16, to 2:00 AM EDT Tuesday, March 17.