Storm Warning Issued for Sumner Strait: Winds Up to 55 Knots and Heavy Seas Forecast

Weather Alerts high NOAA · · Sumner Strait, Alaska

The National Weather Service in Juneau has issued a Storm Warning for Sumner Strait, with south winds reaching 45 knots and gusts up to 55 knots expected Thursday.

Alert Details

The National Weather Service (NWS) Juneau AK has issued a Storm Warning for Sumner Strait. This alert is part of a series of escalating marine warnings including a Small Craft Advisory and a Gale Warning. The Storm Warning is specifically effective from 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM AKST on Thursday, February 12, 2026.

Affected Areas

The warning is in effect for the following geographic region:

  • Sumner Strait, Alaska

What You Should Do

Mariners are advised to take immediate safety 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 pose a significant risk of capsizing or damaging vessels and will likely reduce visibility.

Expected Conditions

Conditions are forecast to intensify through Thursday:

  • Storm Warning Conditions: South winds of 45 knots with gusts up to 55 knots. Seas are expected to reach 8 to 13 feet.
  • Gale Warning Conditions: South winds of 35 knots with gusts up to 50 knots and seas between 7 and 11 feet.
  • Small Craft Advisory Conditions: Southeast winds increasing to 25 knots with gusts up to 40 knots.

Timeline

The progression of weather alerts for Sumner Strait is as follows (all times AKST):

  • Small Craft Advisory: From 9:00 PM Wednesday, Feb 11, to 3:00 AM Thursday, Feb 12.
  • Gale Warning: From 3:00 AM to 9:00 AM Thursday, Feb 12.
  • Storm Warning: From 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM Thursday, Feb 12.