Highlights:
- Freeze warnings and frost advisories issued for parts of New York, Vermont, Maine, and New Hampshire.
- Temperatures could dip into the 20s and low 30s Friday and Saturday nights.
- Alerts aim to protect crops, outdoor plants, and plumbing.
- Residents urged to take precautions before early Saturday morning.
Several states in the Northeast are experiencing early-season freeze warnings and frost advisories as cold air settles in Friday night and continues into the weekend. The National Weather Service (NWS) says temperatures may fall into the 20s and low 30s across the affected regions.
Why farmers and homeowners should care
These warnings are intended to safeguard sensitive crops, gardens, and outdoor vegetation, as well as plumbing that could be damaged by freezing temperatures.
The unexpected cold could impact farmers, gardeners, and homeowners who are not yet prepared, potentially causing crop losses and property damage.
Areas under freeze and frost alerts
Freeze warnings cover portions of New York, Vermont, Maine, and New Hampshire.
- Maine: Central Somerset, Northern Franklin, Northern Oxford, Northwest Aroostook, Northern Somerset, Northern Piscataquis
- New Hampshire: Northern Coos, Southern Coos
- New York: Hamilton, Southern Franklin, western Clinton
- Vermont: Essex County
The NWS forecasts temperatures as low as 27°F Friday night, with Saturday night expected to be similarly cold or slightly lower. Adjacent areas are under frost advisories, with the coldest readings expected just before sunrise Saturday.
What experts are saying
NWS meteorologist Brian Hurley told Newsweek:
“Temperatures are expected to be in the 20s and low 30s. This is early for this time of year, which is why these warnings and advisories are in place.”
Hurley added:
“Frost on grass or windshields signals freezing conditions. These readings are below normal, though they are not record-breaking.”
The NWS Burlington office noted that clearing skies and dry air following a recent front are driving widespread frost overnight.
NWS Albany posted:
“A Freeze Warning has been issued for Hamilton County, with a Frost Advisory for Northern Herkimer and Northern Warren Counties from 2 AM to 8 AM Saturday. Protect sensitive vegetation in these areas.”
Next steps for residents
Most freeze warnings are expected to expire by early Saturday morning. Residents are advised to cover plants, insulate pipes, and check on vulnerable individuals and pets to prevent damage or harm.
