Storm Warning Issued for Sitkinak to Castle Cape Waters with 70-Knot Gusts Expected

Alert Details

A Storm Warning has been issued by the National Weather Service (NWS) Anchorage AK. This alert is in effect for offshore coastal waters as a significant weather system moves through the region, bringing hazardous maritime conditions.

Affected Areas

The warning covers the coastal waters from Sitkinak to Castle Cape, extending from 15 to 100 nautical miles out. This includes portions of the Southwest Alaska, Bristol Bay, and Alaska Peninsula waters.

What You Should Do

Mariners are advised to avoid the warning area. The NWS recommends taking immediate action to secure vessels and equipment against extreme wind and high seas. Operators should monitor updated forecasts and remain in safe harbor until conditions improve.

Expected Conditions

Dangerous maritime conditions are forecast for the duration of the alert:

• Winds: Northwest winds will increase to 40-50 knots tonight, reaching sustained speeds of 55 knots on Friday.
• Gusts: Wind gusts are expected to reach 65 knots after midnight tonight and peak at 70 knots on Friday.
• Seas: Wave heights will build from 12 feet today to 16 feet tonight, peaking at 20 feet on Friday.
• Additional Hazards: Freezing spray is expected on Friday as temperatures and wind speeds fluctuate.

Timeline

• Onset: Thursday, February 19, at 5:00 PM AKST.
• Peak Conditions: Late Thursday night through Friday afternoon.
• Expiration: The warning is currently set to expire on Friday, February 20, at 5:00 PM AKST.
• Outlook: Conditions are expected to gradually subside on Saturday with winds decreasing to 30 knots and seas falling to 11 feet.