Frost and Freeze Protection Ahead of Late-Season Cold Snap
A late-season cold snap is moving into the Carolinas
CHARLOTTE, North Carolina (WCCB) – A strong cold front is sweeping across the Carolinas Wednesday which will bring a late-season cold snap to the area. A frost/freeze is likely across the High Country and Foothills, and possible for the Piedmont both Thursday and Friday morning.
Freeze Warnings are in effect for our North Carolina counties with a Frost Advisory in effect for our South Carolina counties:
Tips to protect your plants:
- Bring them inside if possible.
- If not, cover them with a sheet or a blanket. This acts as insulation, keeping warm air from the ground around the plants. Do note, it will be windy Wednesday evening into Thursday morning so if you’re covering your plants, put rocks or stakes down to hold the sheet/blanket in place.
- Before you cover your plants, water the soil. This helps the soil retain heat.
- Be sure to remove the covering in the morning.
Timing of when to cover your plants:
Wednesday night: YES – cover your plants. While the strong winds may help prevent a widespread frost, a freeze and patchy frost is still likely for some.
Thursday night: YES – cover your plants. Temperatures will likely be a few degrees “warmer” in the mid-30s across the Piedmont, frost can still form. Better safe than sorry!
Friday and Saturday night: NO – no need to cover your plants as low temperatures rebound back to the 40s/50°.
Please do not forget about the pets! Bring them inside for the next couple of nights as well as temperatures drop into the 20s and 30s.
