Key Characteristics and Impacts
* Temperature Threshold: The warning is typically issued when temperatures are expected to fall to 32^\circ F (0^\circ C) or lower.
* Significance: It signifies the first widespread freeze of the autumn, often marking the end of the growing season, or a damaging freeze during the spring growing season.
* Impacts:
* Vegetation: The temperatures can kill most types of sensitive crops and plants. If temperatures drop to 28^\circ F (-2^\circ C) or lower for several hours, it's considered a Hard Freeze and is lethal to most vegetation.
* Property: Freezing temperatures can also damage unprotected outdoor plumbing, like exposed pipes and garden hoses, as the water inside freezes and expands.
Comparison with Other Cold Weather Alerts
The Freeze Warning is part of a series of cold weather alerts, with increasing levels of danger:
| Alert Type | Definition | Action |
|---|---|---|
| Frost Advisory | Minimum temperatures are expected to be between 33^\circ F and 36^\circ F (0.5^\circ C and 2^\circ C). | Be Aware. Frost is expected and poses a threat to sensitive vegetation. |
| Freeze Watch | There is a potential for significant, widespread freezing temperatures (32^\circ F or less) within the next 24-36 hours. | Be Prepared. Start preparing to protect sensitive plants and outdoor plumbing. |
| Freeze Warning | Sub-freezing temperatures (32^\circ F or less) are expected or occurring. | Take Action! Cover or bring in plants, and drain or cover exposed water pipes. |
| Hard Freeze Warning | Minimum temperatures are expected to be 28^\circ F (-2^\circ C) or lower. | Take Action! More severe action is needed, as these temperatures are lethal to most plants and increase the risk to ou
tdoor pipes. |
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