Heavy Freezing Spray Warning Issued for Bering Sea Offshore Waters

Alert Details

The National Weather Service (NWS) Anchorage AK has issued a Heavy Freezing Spray Warning for the Bering Sea. This alert is specifically focused on a period of heavy icing expected to impact maritime operations. Additionally, a Gale Warning remains in effect through Wednesday night.

Affected Areas

The warning impacts the following geographic region:

• Bering Sea Offshore: Areas between 171W to 180 and North of 56N (Forecast Zone PKZ412).

What You Should Do

Mariners are advised to avoid the warning area. Heavy freezing spray can lead to rapid ice accumulation on vessels, which can significantly impact stability and safety. Residents and operators in the affected offshore zones should monitor conditions closely and take necessary precautions before the onset of the heaviest spray.

Expected Conditions

According to the NWS, the following conditions are forecast for the warning area:

• Hazard: Heavy freezing spray, particularly during the Wednesday night period.
• Wind: Northwest winds ranging from 25 to 40 knots.
• Seas: Combined wind wave and swell heights between 14 and 22 feet.
• Precipitation: Widespread snow showers are expected to accompany the freezing conditions.

Timeline

• Effective Period: The Heavy Freezing Spray Warning is specifically highlighted for Wednesday night, February 11.
• Expiration: The warning is currently set to expire at 5:00 AM AKST on Thursday, February 12.
• Preceding Conditions: NW winds of 25 to 40 knots and seas up to 23 feet are expected to begin as early as Tuesday night, with freezing spray becoming heavy by Wednesday night.