Heavy Freezing Spray Warning Issued for Shelikof Strait Through Wednesday

Alert Details

The National Weather Service (NWS) Anchorage AK has issued a Heavy Freezing Spray Warning for the Shelikof Strait. This alert is categorized as severe, with hazardous conditions likely to impact maritime safety and vessel stability.

Affected Areas

The primary area affected is the Shelikof Strait (PKZ738). The broader forecast area includes the Northern Gulf of Alaska Coast up to 100 nm out, including Kodiak Island and Cook Inlet.

What You Should Do

Mariners and vessel operators are advised to avoid the area during the warning period. The NWS response recommendation is to avoid the hazard, as extreme freezing spray can rapidly accumulate on vessels, creating dangerous conditions.

Expected Conditions

Weather conditions are forecast to deteriorate with the following specific hazards:

• Wind: Northwest winds of 45 knots on Wednesday, with gusts reaching up to 65 knots out of bays and passes.
• Seas: Wave heights are expected to reach 11 feet.
• Freezing Spray: Extreme freezing spray is forecast at a rate of 4 cm per hour or greater. Accumulation is expected to begin after midnight tonight, with the most severe rates occurring on Wednesday.

Timeline

The Heavy Freezing Spray Warning is specifically in effect from 5:00 AM AKST on Wednesday, February 25, through 5:00 PM AKST on Wednesday, February 25. Additionally, a Gale Warning is in effect for Tuesday night and Wednesday.