Storm Warning Issued for Cross Sound: Winds Up to 60 Knots and Dangerous Seas Expected

Alert Details

The National Weather Service (NWS) Juneau AK has issued a Storm Warning for Cross Sound. This alert is part of a series of escalating marine warnings including Small Craft Advisories and Gale Warnings effective through Sunday morning.

Affected Areas

This alert specifically affects Cross Sound.

What You Should Do

Mariners are advised to take immediate precautions. The NWS recommends that mariners remain in port, alter course, and/or secure their vessels for severe conditions. Storm-force winds and hazardous seas are capable of capsizing or damaging vessels and will significantly reduce visibility.

Expected Conditions

During the peak of the storm, the following conditions are forecast:

• Winds: West winds between 35 to 50 knots with gusts reaching up to 60 knots.
• Seas: Wave heights between 15 and 20 feet.
• Impacts: High risk of vessel damage and dangerous navigation due to reduced visibility.

Timeline

The weather event will progress through several stages of severity:

• Small Craft Advisory: In effect until 3:00 PM AKST Saturday afternoon (Winds 15-25 kt, gusts 30 kt, seas 9-14 ft).
• Gale Warning: From 3:00 PM to 6:00 PM AKST Saturday (Winds 30-40 kt, gusts 55 kt, seas 7-12 ft).
• Storm Warning: From 6:00 PM to 9:00 PM AKST Saturday (Winds 35-50 kt, gusts 60 kt, seas 15-20 ft).
• Gale Warning: From 9:00 PM Saturday to 4:00 AM AKST Sunday (Winds 25-35 kt, gusts 40 kt, seas 14-19 ft).
• Small Craft Advisory: From 4:00 AM to 7:00 AM AKST Sunday (Winds 15-25 kt, gusts 30 kt, seas 7-12 ft).