Storm Warning Issued for Southeast Alaska Coastal Waters: 55-Knot Winds and 38-Foot Seas Forecast

Alert Details

The National Weather Service (NWS) in Juneau, AK, has issued a Storm Warning for Southeast Alaska coastal waters. The alert is effective from 5:00 AM AKST on Thursday, February 12, through 5:00 PM AKST on Thursday evening.

Affected Areas

The warning specifically covers the region from Cape Decision to Cape Edgecumbe, extending from 15 to 80 nautical miles (NM) offshore. The broader forecast area includes Southeast Alaska Coastal Waters from Dixon Entrance to Cape Suckling out to 100 NM.

What You Should Do

The NWS advises individuals to avoid the affected coastal waters during the warning period. Mariners should take necessary precautions to protect life and property, seeking safe harbor or remaining in port until conditions improve.

Expected Conditions

• Winds: Southwest storm force winds are expected to reach up to 55 knots on Thursday morning. These are forecast to diminish to gale force winds of 45 knots by the afternoon.
• Seas: Significant wave heights are expected to reach an average of 38 feet on Thursday.
• Precipitation: Rain is forecast throughout the day on Thursday.
• Preceding Conditions: Tonight, south gale winds of 35 knots with gusts up to 55 knots are expected, with seas building from 16 feet to 26 feet.

Timeline

• Onset: Thursday, February 12 at 5:00 AM AKST.
• Duration: The storm warning is currently set to expire at 5:00 PM AKST on Thursday, February 12.
• Outlook: Conditions are expected to remain hazardous into Thursday night with southwest gales of 35 knots and 27-foot seas. Winds and seas are expected to gradually subside through Friday and Saturday.