Heavy Freezing Spray Warning Issued for Passage Canal and Whittier Vicinity

Alert Details

The National Weather Service in Anchorage, AK, has issued a Heavy Freezing Spray Warning for the Passage Canal region. This alert is currently in effect and will remain active through late Wednesday afternoon.

Affected Areas

The primary area affected is Passage Canal. The forecast also covers the Northern Gulf of Alaska Coast up to 100 nm out, including Kodiak Island and Cook Inlet. Specific impacts are noted near Whittier.

What You Should Do

Mariners and residents are advised to avoid the affected coastal waters. Heavy freezing spray can cause significant ice accumulation on vessels, which may lead to stability issues and hazardous conditions.

Expected Conditions

• Winds: West winds at 35 kt in the morning, diminishing to 25 kt later in the day.
• Wind Gusts: Gusts up to 50 kt are expected near Whittier during the morning hours, decreasing to 40 kt.
• Seas: Average sea heights of 3 feet.
• Hazards: Heavy freezing spray is the primary hazard.

Timeline

The Heavy Freezing Spray Warning is effective from 5:00 AM AKDT on Wednesday, March 11, 2026, until 5:00 PM AKDT the same day. Conditions are expected to transition to lighter freezing spray tonight as winds decrease to 20 kt with 35 kt gusts.