Residents across south central Pennsylvania are being warned to prepare for a sharp overnight freeze, a dramatic reversal from the unseasonably warm weather many areas experienced just days ago.
The National Weather Service has issued a freeze warning for all of south central Pennsylvania from midnight tonight through 9 a.m. Tuesday. Forecasters said overnight temperatures are expected to fall into the upper 20s to low 30s under clear skies.
The cold snap comes in stark contrast to last week’s spring warmth, when temperatures climbed well above normal and many residents were spending time outdoors in short sleeves, opening windows and starting gardens early.
Meteorologists said strong high pressure settling over the region will cause winds to diminish overnight, allowing temperatures to drop quickly after sunset.
The sudden chill could pose problems for gardens, flowering plants, and early-season agriculture that may have benefited from the recent warm stretch. Officials urged residents to cover or bring in sensitive plants and take precautions to protect crops from freeze damage.
Fruit growers and backyard gardeners across counties, including Adams County, York County, Lancaster County, Cumberland County, and surrounding areas, may be especially concerned, as many trees and plants have already begun spring growth.
Tuesday is expected to improve quickly once the morning freeze ends. Forecasters are calling for mostly sunny skies with afternoon highs in the upper 50s. Light winds should make for a calmer and brighter day, though still noticeably cooler than recent conditions.
The warning is another reminder that despite recent mild weather, late-season freezes remain common in April across Pennsylvania.
Source: WGAL, The Weather Channel