40.0°

JUNEAU - Alaska Marine Highway System officials canceled the fast ferry Chenega's round-trip sailings today between Juneau and Sitka because of continued inclement weather at sea.

Gale warnings were in effect for most Southeast Alaska waters Wednesday, including Chatham Strait, with even more intense weather conditions brewing in Lynn Canal.

"We're really looking for some help from Mother Nature so we can return to providing service to our customers who've become accustomed to having their transportation needs met," said Capt. John Falvey, AMHS general manager.

AMHS officials said they will continue to monitor weather conditions before making a decision on Friday's scheduled sailing to Haines.

"At this point, we have to more or less take it day-by-day and remain hopeful that the situation will improve soon," Falvey said.

Three previous Chenega sailings this month were canceled due to weather.