The National Weather Service has issued a freeze warning for Northern and Southern Erie, valid from midnight to 10 a.m. on Thursday. Sub-freezing temperatures as low as 29 degrees are expected, posing a risk to crops and other sensitive vegetation. Residents are advised to take steps to protect their outdoor plants and plumbing, as frost and freeze conditions can cause damage.
According to the weather service, freeze warnings are issued from May to October when low temperatures are expected to be between 29 and 32 degrees. If there is a potential for temperatures to fall into these thresholds, a freeze watch may be issued a few days ahead of time.
If a freeze warning or watch is issued for your area, there are steps you can take to protect your plants. If possible, move your sensitive plants indoors, as the freeze will likely kill them, depending on the severity of the conditions. You can also cover your plants with blankets or tarps to provide insulation and protect them from frost and freezing temperatures.
The National Weather Service recommends that residents take precautions to prevent damage to their outdoor plumbing as well. Insulate exposed pipes with foam insulation or heat tape to prevent them from freezing and bursting.
Residents should monitor the weather forecast and be prepared to take additional protective measures if conditions worsen.
