Severe Marine Storm Warning Issued For Southwest Alaska: What Tourists Need To Know!

Published on December 1, 2025

People moving around, staying, or working in the coastal areas in the Southwest Alaska, Bristol Bay, the Alaska Peninsula and the Aleutian Islands have all geared up for a long-lasting marine storm event after the National Weather Service (NWS) Anchorage came out with a Storm Warning that covers the period from 30 November 2:39 pm AKST to 2 December 5:00 am AKST. The locals were already reported to be worried as the area was about to experience violent winds, ice capping, and big waves. The warning, which has been put up on the NWS’s official website, describes the conditions that will be very bad and expected to be worse after Tuesday night.

Dangerous Winds and Heavy Seas Forecast

According to the NWS marine bulletin for Alaska coastal waters up to 100 nautical miles offshore, the region will experience a challenging sequence of high-wind events:

• Tonight: North winds at 40 kt with 18 ft seas and freezing spray
• Monday: Increasing to NE 40 kt, seas steady at 18 ft, freezing spray
• Monday night: Winds strengthening to NE 50 kt after midnight, seas rising to 22 ft
• Tuesday: NE 50 kt winds and 23 ft seas
• Tuesday night: Winds shifting to N 45 kt, seas remaining at 23 ft
• Wednesday: NE 45 kt winds with 19 ft seas
• Thursday: NE 30 kt, seas reducing to 11 ft
• Friday: E 25 kt, seas rising again to 15 ft

Forecasters indicated that the period between Monday night and Tuesday will be especially treacherous as winds peak and freezing spray accumulates rapidly on vessels.

Impact on Travel and Tourism

Key Destinations Likely to Be Affected

Visitors planning winter expeditions or journalistic fieldwork in the region may face significant disruptions. Among the locations likely to experience severe conditions are:

• Dutch Harbor & Unalaska
• King Salmon & Naknek (Bristol Bay region)
• Kodiak Island (particularly vessel routes to/from the Peninsula)
• Cold Bay & Sand Point
• Chignik communities
• False Pass and Akutan in the Eastern Aleutians

These areas rely heavily on marine transport, small aircraft operations and coastal infrastructure, all of which may see delays, cancellations or temporary closures.

Transport & Marine Risks

Aviation and Maritime Concerns

Regional pilots reportedly noted that strong crosswinds and freezing spray could challenge even experienced flight crews. Marine operators have been advised that high seas above 20 feet can severely impair visibility, ice build-up and vessel stability.

Local operators were said to be encouraging travellers to stay in close contact with airlines, ferry services and harbour authorities as conditions evolve. Cargo and fishing vessels are expected to remain in port during the peak of the storm.

Guidance from Authorities

Safety Protocols for Tourists and Travellers

While the storm is not unusual for the season, authorities emphasise that preparedness is crucial. The NWS and local emergency coordinators recommend the following:

• Avoid boat travel until warnings are lifted; seas over 20 ft pose an extreme capsize risk.
• Dress in layered, insulated gear to protect against sudden wind chill drops.
• Monitor official NWS updates frequently, as conditions can change rapidly.
• Secure outdoor items, including photographic or journalistic equipment.
• Plan for delays—keep extra food, water and power sources if staying in remote lodges.
• Use caution near shorelines, as rogue waves and freezing spray make surfaces hazardous.
• Keep communication devices charged, especially satellite tools in low-signal areas.

Emergency services suggested that those unfamiliar with Alaska’s winter marine hazards should seek local advice before moving between communities.

Outlook as the Storm Passes

As the week progresses, winds are expected to ease somewhat by Thursday, giving way to more manageable conditions. However, the rise in seas again by Friday suggests continued caution will be essential for mariners and travellers alike. Residents shared that early December storms often carry an emotional toll, as communities balance preparation with the hope of limited disruption.

Bottom Line

At this time, Southwest Alaska and the Aleutian Islands are still being very careful and are ready for any storms, and it is highly recommended that the travelers listen to the official NWS instructions until the time of the warning is over.