Storm Warning Issued for Northwestern Alaska Coastal Waters Near Sledge Island and Wales

Alert Details

The National Weather Service (NWS) in Fairbanks has issued a Storm Warning for Northwestern Alaska coastal waters. The alert was issued on February 10 at 3:49 PM AKST and remains in effect until February 11 at 5:00 AM AKST.

Affected Areas

The warning covers the Northwestern Alaska Coastal Waters out to 100 nautical miles, specifically the region from Sledge Island to Wales greater than 15 nautical miles offshore.

What You Should Do

The National Weather Service recommends that individuals avoid the affected coastal waters. Mariners and residents in the area should take necessary precautions to protect life and property before the onset of the most severe conditions.

Expected Conditions

Dangerous maritime conditions are expected throughout the warning period and into the latter half of the week:

• Tonight: Northeast winds of 45 knots with blowing snow. Visibility will be reduced to 1 nautical mile or less.
• Wednesday: North winds are forecast to reach 50 knots. Blowing snow will continue to limit visibility to 1 nautical mile or less.
• Wednesday Night: North winds of 40 knots with snow and blowing snow. Visibility remains at 1 nautical mile or less.
• Thursday: Northwest winds of 35 knots with blowing snow and low visibility.

Wind forecasts reflect the predominant speed and direction expected. Sea forecasts represent the average of the highest one-third of the combined wind-wave and swell height.

Timeline

The Storm Warning is effective immediately as of Tuesday afternoon. The most intense conditions are expected to persist through Wednesday morning, with the formal warning period ending at 5:00 AM AKST on Wednesday, February 11.