First Widespread Frost and Freeze of the Season Headed for the Southeast

Residents of the Southeast should brace themselves for the first widespread frost and freeze of the season. The same weather pattern that will bring the first snow of the year to the Northeast by the end of the week will also send frigid air as far as the southern U.S. Read on for the details of this cold weather pattern.

Frost and Freeze Conditions Headed to the Southeast

Portions of the Southeast are likely to see the first killing frost or hard freeze of the season by the weekend. In addition to the frost and freeze concerns, some areas of the southern Appalachians may also see the first bit of accumulating snow.

The chilly air will originate in Canada and take a dive into the northern U.S. beginning on Thursday. This mass of colder air will then migrate farther south, translating to the lowest temperatures of the season for most states in the eastern third of the country.

Gardeners will want to prepare for damage to summer flowers and vegetable plants. The mercury is forecast to slide into the low to mid 30s for a zone from northeastern Texas and down into the Florida Panhandle. The expectation of freezing temperatures will stretch to the east, reaching the Interstate 95 corridor as far south as the Carolinas.

Some regions could see temperatures land in the 20s for a brief period in the overnight hours. This will inevitably mark the end of the growing season for millions of Americans.

This is a good time to bring potted plants and small pots of garden vegetables into the garage for protection against the elements. Plastic tarps or blankets will not likely provide enough protection from this degree of cold.