Freeze Warning Issued for Western Pennsylvania Counties
The National Weather Service (NWS) has issued a freeze warning for nine counties in western Pennsylvania, including Mercer, Venango, Forest, Lawrence, Butler, Clarion, Jefferson, Armstrong, and Indiana. The warning is effective from midnight to 10 a.m. on Thursday, December 15th.
According to the NWS, sub-freezing temperatures in the lower 30s and upper 20s are expected during this period. These conditions can cause frost and freeze damage to crops, other sensitive vegetation, and possibly even unprotected outdoor plumbing. The NWS advises residents to take immediate steps to protect tender plants from the cold.
Freeze warnings are typically issued during the growing season, from May to October, when temperatures are expected to drop below freezing. If there is a potential for temperatures to fall below 32 degrees Fahrenheit, a freeze watch may be issued several days in advance.
The NWS emphasizes that once a freeze warning or watch is issued, there may be limited options for protecting plants. If possible, sensitive plants should be moved indoors as the freeze could potentially kill them, depending on the severity of the conditions.
Residents are encouraged to stay informed about weather conditions and take necessary precautions to protect their property and vegetation.