Kodiak, Alaska – Storm-force winds up to 60 knots and rapid ice buildup of 4 centimeters per hour could cripple vessels in the Northern Gulf of Alaska beginning Thursday afternoon, creating life-threatening conditions for mariners near Kodiak Island and Cook Inlet.
According to the National Weather Service in Anchorage, a Storm Warning takes effect Thursday night for Shelikof Strait and waters west of the Barren Islands, including Kamishak Bay. A Gale Warning covers Cook Inlet from Kalgin Island to Point Bede beginning Thursday, with heavy freezing spray expected Thursday night. Northwest winds will intensify to 50 to 60 knots in storm zones, with gusts reaching 65 knots out of bays and passes. Seas will build rapidly, peaking near 19 feet west of the Barren Islands and 13 feet in Shelikof Strait by Friday.
Kamishak Bay faces the most dangerous icing rates, where extreme freezing spray could accumulate quickly on decks and rigging. In Cook Inlet, seas will climb to 10 feet Thursday afternoon as winds shift northwest at 35 knots, creating hazardous cross seas and reduced vessel stability.
Mariners should delay departures, secure loose gear and monitor ice buildup closely. Heavy icing can destabilize vessels within minutes under sustained spray.
Storm-force winds ease slightly Friday night, but hazardous seas and freezing spray continue into Saturday before calmer conditions return Sunday. Additional marine advisories remain possible as the system tracks east.
