In a small Alaskan town, a news reporter named Adam Carlson stumbles upon three gray whales trapped under rapidly forming ice. Realizing the significance of the story, Adam brings national attention to the whales' plight. Environmental activist Rachel Kramer, who is also Adam's ex-girlfriend, arrives to spearhead the rescue mission. Initially met with resistance, she manages to rally support from local Inuit communities and powerful oil companies. As freezing temperatures threaten the lives of the whales, the town bands together with the shared goal of creating a path to open water using whatever resources are available.

Momentum builds as the story catches the eye of international media, leading to a global outpouring of concern and aid. Political pressures and government interventions further intensify the efforts, drawing in diverse groups ranging from the U.S. military to Soviet icebreakers. This coalition faces numerous obstacles, battling both harsh environmental conditions and logistical nightmares in their bid to save the whales. Amidst these challenges, relationships are tested, and personal growth emerges, showcasing human resilience and compassion in the face of seemingly insurmountable odds.