... Coastal Flood Watch in effect from Wednesday morning through
Thursday afternoon...
The National Weather Service in Fairbanks has issued a coastal
Flood Watch... which is in effect from Wednesday morning through
Thursday afternoon.
A storm in the southwest Bering Sea is forecast to move to the
Bering Strait Tuesday night and strengthen rapidly. This will
bring strong west winds to all the West Coast of Alaska from the
Bering Strait south early Wednesday through Thursday. This storm
has the potential to cause coastal flooding along the West Coast
of Alaska from the Bering Strait south Wednesday through Thursday.
The storm surge is expected to raise the sea level 4 to 8 feet and
could push sea ice inland. Wave driven sea ice can cause great
damage to structures.
Heavy snow, blizzard conditions and even freezing rain are
expected to start Tuesday afternoon and continue through
Wednesday when the flooding is expect to occur. People are urged
to be prepared for this storm before it hits Tuesday night.
There is a weaker storm currently in Norton Sound causing brief
heavy snow. This storm will move out of the areas tonight.
Precautionary/preparedness actions...
A coastal Flood Watch means that conditions favorable for
flooding are expected to develop. Coastal residents should be
alert for later statements or warnings... and take action to
protect property.