Storm Warning Issued for Sitkinak to Castle Cape: Extreme Freezing Spray and 60-Knot Gusts Expected

Alert Details

The National Weather Service (NWS) Anchorage AK has issued a Storm Warning and a Heavy Freezing Spray Warning for the coastal waters of Southwest Alaska. The alert is effective from 5:00 AM AKDT on Monday, March 16, until 5:00 AM AKDT on Tuesday, March 17.

Affected Areas

The warning specifically covers the coastal waters from Sitkinak to Castle Cape out to 15 nautical miles (NM).

What You Should Do

Mariners and vessel operators are advised to avoid the area during the warning period. The NWS recommends immediate response to avoid hazardous conditions. Extreme freezing spray can rapidly accumulate on vessels, significantly increasing the risk of capsizing or equipment failure.

Expected Conditions

• Wind Speed: Northwest winds are expected to increase to 45–50 knots. Gusts are forecast to reach up to 60 knots, particularly out of bays and passes.
• Sea Conditions: Average sea heights are expected to range between 9 and 11 feet.
• Freezing Spray: Extreme freezing spray is forecast to accumulate at a rate of 4 cm per hour or greater.

Timeline

• Sunday Night: Northwest winds increasing to 45 knots with 60-knot gusts and 9-foot seas.
• Monday and Monday Night: Peak conditions with northwest winds of 50 knots, gusts to 60 knots, and seas reaching 11 feet. Extreme freezing spray will persist.
• Tuesday Morning: The Storm Warning is currently scheduled to expire at 5:00 AM AKDT, though winds of 45 knots and 9-foot seas may continue through the day.