Gale Warning Issued for Etolin Strait to Kwemeluk Pass

A Gale Warning has been issued by the National Weather Service (NWS) Fairbanks AK for the coastal waters from Etolin Strait to Kwemeluk Pass, extending 15 to 90 nautical miles offshore.

This warning is effective immediately, beginning September 24, 2026, at 3:46 AM AKDT, and is set to expire on September 25, 2026, at 5:00 AM AKDT. Mariners in the affected area should prepare for strong winds and high seas.

Forecasts indicate East winds of 40 knots and seas of 10 feet today, September 24. Tonight, East winds of 35 knots and seas of 11 feet are expected. On Friday, September 25, East winds will be around 30 knots with seas of 8 feet. Winds are expected to shift to the North at 20 knots by Saturday, September 26, with seas of 7 feet.

This alert covers the Northwestern Alaska Coastal Waters out to 100 nautical miles. The NWS advises mariners to exercise extreme caution and secure vessels and gear as necessary. Specific instructions were not provided beyond the warning itself, but safe boating practices are always recommended during adverse weather conditions.