Kodiak, Alaska — Gale warnings remain in effect across large portions of the Northern Gulf of Alaska as strong winds and high seas create hazardous marine conditions through Wednesday and Wednesday night.
According to the National Weather Service in Anchorage, multiple marine zones including Shelikof Strait, Gore Point to Marmot Island, Barren Islands, Kamishak Bay, and offshore Gulf waters are experiencing gale-force winds of 35 knots, with seas ranging from 9 to 18 feet. Conditions are expected to worsen overnight and persist into Wednesday night in some areas.
The strongest conditions are forecast in PKZ733 and PKZ734, where southerly to northeasterly winds up to 35 knots are producing seas as high as 18 feet. Additional gale warnings are posted for waters near Kodiak Island, Cook Inlet, and routes frequently used by fishing and transport vessels.
Further south, the National Weather Service in Juneau has issued a series of Small Craft Advisories and Gale Warnings for Clarence Strait and waters from Cape Spencer to Icy Cape, with gusts up to 45 knots and seas reaching 19 feet during peak conditions Wednesday.
These winds and seas pose a serious risk to vessels, with the potential for capsizing, structural damage, and reduced visibility in rain and sea spray. Hazardous crosswinds may also impact ferry operations and nearshore navigation routes.
Mariners are strongly advised to remain in port, seek safe harbor, or alter travel plans until conditions improve. Even larger, well-equipped vessels may experience difficult handling during peak wind periods.
Winds are expected to gradually ease late Wednesday night into Thursday, though elevated seas may persist into the end of the week.
The National Weather Service emphasizes that Gale Warnings indicate life-threatening marine conditions and should be taken seriously.
Mariners should monitor the latest forecasts at weather.gov/anchorage and weather.gov/juneau, and continuously check marine radio for updated warnings.
