Storm Warning Issued In Southwest Alaska And Aleutian Islands, US: What Tourists Need To Know!

Southwest Alaska, the Aleutian Islands and Bristol Bay have all received a storm warning, while the National Weather Service (NWS) Anchorage is reporting powerful winds, an abundance of rain, and dangerous seas. The warning lasts from 2:39 PM AKST on November 3, 2025, until 5:00 PM AKST on November 4. The weather forecast indicates large-scale disruptions which will have an impact on the lives of local populations, visitors, and the different tourist spots around in the area.

As the storm continues to develop, officials are advising tourists to take extra precautions when travelling to or within the affected areas. With gusts of wind reaching up to 50 knots (about 58 miles per hour) and sea heights surging to 27 feet, it is essential for visitors to remain informed about the weather conditions and follow safety protocols.

Key Affected Areas and Tourist Destinations

The storm will primarily affect the following regions of Alaska:

• Southwest Alaska: This area, including popular destinations such as Kodiak Island and the Kenai Peninsula, is expected to see severe weather with high winds and rough seas.
• Bristol Bay: Known for its fishing villages and scenic landscapes, this region is also expected to face hazardous conditions.
• The Aleutian Islands: A key tourist region known for its natural beauty, the Aleutian Islands will experience particularly intense winds and waves.

Tourists planning to visit these destinations should take heed of the storm’s impact and reconsider outdoor activities during the warning period. For example, cruises along the Aleutian Islands or planned fishing trips in Bristol Bay may need to be adjusted or rescheduled due to safety concerns. Visitors to the Kenai Peninsula should prepare for potential disruptions in transportation services, including flight delays or cancellations.

Detailed Forecast and Weather Impacts

The NWS has issued specific forecasts for the storm:

• Tonight (November 3): Winds from the southwest at 30 knots, increasing to 40 knots after midnight. The seas will reach up to 13 feet, with rain expected.
• Tuesday (November 4): Winds from the northwest at 50 knots, gradually decreasing to 40 knots in the afternoon. Seas will be 16 feet.
• Tuesday Night (November 4): Northwest winds of 35 knots and seas of 14 feet.
• Wednesday and Wednesday Night (November 5): Winds will shift to the southwest at 25 knots, with seas decreasing to 10 feet.
• Thursday (November 6): Winds will be from the west at 30 knots, with seas of 11 feet.
• Friday (November 7): East winds at 45 knots, with seas reaching 25 feet.
• Saturday (November 8): Southwest winds at 45 knots and seas reaching 27 feet.

These conditions will create dangerous sea states, especially for those in smaller boats, ferries, or coastal tourism ventures. The storm’s progress also makes travelling by sea extremely risky for both tourists and locals alike. Additionally, the high winds may cause dangerous coastal flooding and erosion, posing further risks to nearby communities.

Key Safety Protocols for Tourists

Given the severity of the storm, the National Weather Service urges tourists to prioritise safety. Here are some critical safety measures to consider:

1. Monitor Weather Updates: Tourists should regularly check the National Weather Service’s official website for real-time weather alerts. Those visiting the region are encouraged to stay updated with both general weather and specific advisories for coastal waters and nearby islands.
2. Avoid Outdoor Activities: Strong winds and heavy seas make it dangerous for activities such as hiking, fishing, and boating. Visitors should postpone these activities until conditions improve. Even scenic coastal viewpoints may be impacted by the storm’s severity.
3. Secure Accommodations: For tourists already in Southwest Alaska or the Aleutian Islands, it is recommended to secure a safe place indoors. Many hotels and accommodations in the area are designed to withstand severe weather, so checking with local management about storm preparedness can ensure safety.
4. Be Prepared for Delays and Cancellations: Travel disruptions are expected, particularly for flights and ferry services. Passengers are advised to confirm their bookings in advance and consider alternate dates for their travel plans if possible.
5. Follow Local Authorities’ Guidance: Local emergency management teams may issue additional advisories or evacuation orders depending on how the storm evolves. Tourists should follow these instructions promptly.
6. Emergency Kits and Supplies: For visitors who may be stranded, packing emergency kits including food, water, and a flashlight is highly recommended. It’s always better to be prepared for the worst-case scenario.

Protecting Tourists and Locals Alike

As the storm approaches Southwest Alaska and the Aleutian Islands, tourists should remain vigilant and take necessary precautions. The combination of high winds, heavy rainfall, and hazardous seas makes this a potentially dangerous storm, especially for those who are unfamiliar with the region’s unpredictable weather.

What Next?

The local tourism infrastructure is strong, but visitors must change their expectations and plans. In case one is visiting the Kenai Peninsula, sailing through the Aleutian Islands, or enjoying the unspoiled beauty of Bristol Bay, it will be safer and more pleasant if one follows the advice of the local authorities and stays safe when the storm is over.

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