Gray, Maine – Mariners along the Maine coast have hours to secure vessels before 30-knot wind gusts and building freezing spray begin icing decks by 9 p.m., creating hazardous conditions that will last into Monday afternoon.
According to the National Weather Service in Gray, a Small Craft Advisory remains in effect until 5 a.m. Monday for coastal waters from Stonington to the Merrimack River, including Penobscot Bay. North winds between 15 and 25 knots, with gusts up to 30 knots, will push seas to 2 to 5 feet. A Freezing Spray Advisory runs from 9 p.m. Sunday until 1 p.m. Monday, with moderate ice accumulation expected.
The combination of cold air and persistent north winds will allow ice to build on decks, railings and superstructures, increasing the risk of instability and mechanical issues. Conditions will be especially dangerous for smaller lobster boats and recreational vessels operating out of Rockland, Portland and Boothbay Harbor.
The U.S. Coast Guard advises mariners to keep life-saving equipment free of ice and consider delaying departures. Inexperienced operators should avoid navigating overnight.
Winds ease after sunrise Monday, but freezing spray may continue into early afternoon before gradual improvement. Additional advisories could follow if wind speeds increase.
