Residents in parts of Georgia and Florida need to prepare for an unexpected cold snap. The National Weather Service (NWS) has issued a Frost Advisory for early Tuesday morning as temperatures are expected to dip between 32°F and 36°F. This means delicate plants, crops, and even pets left outside could be at risk.
For an area that usually enjoys mild winters, this sudden frost is a stark reminder that winter isn’t over just yet. If you have plants, outdoor animals, or even an early morning commute, you’ll want to take precautions.
When & Where Will This Frost Hit?
The Frost Advisory is in effect from 2 a.m. to 8 a.m. on Tuesday. During this time, temperatures are expected to drop to near freezing levels with little to no wind, creating ideal conditions for frost to form.
The advisory specifically covers several counties in Georgia, including:
- Coffee
- Jeff Davis
- Bacon
- Appling
- Wayne
- Atkinson
- Pierce
- Brantley
- Echols
- Clinch
- Camden
- Ware
- Charlton
Southern parts of Florida, particularly the northern and inland regions, may also see frost, especially in low-lying areas where cold air tends to settle.
What This Frost Could Mean for You
A frost advisory means that frost formation is likely, which can damage sensitive vegetation. If you have a garden or rely on crops, taking action now can prevent major losses.
Here’s what happens when frost settles in:
Plants & Crops at Risk – Many plants can’t survive freezing temperatures, especially tropical or warm-weather plants common in Florida and Georgia. Cold-sensitive crops like strawberries, citrus trees, and flowers may suffer damage or die if not protected.
Pets Need Shelter – If you have outdoor cats, dogs, or livestock, make sure they have warm bedding and a place to stay safe from the cold.
Watch for Icy Windshields – While major roads won’t freeze, you might wake up to an icy windshield, which could delay your morning drive. Leaving extra time to defrost your car is a smart move.
Sudden Temperature Swings – The South is known for rapid weather changes, so while the frost will be a short-lived event, it could still be damaging if you aren’t prepared.
How to Protect Your Plants, Pets, and Property
Cover Your Plants: Use blankets, tarps, or specialized frost cloths to cover delicate plants overnight. Make sure to remove covers during the day to allow sunlight in.
Move Potted Plants Indoors: If you have potted plants, bring them inside your garage or home. If they’re too big, try moving them closer to a wall or covered area for extra warmth.
Keep Pets Warm: If possible, bring outdoor pets inside for the night. For farm animals or livestock, provide extra bedding and shelter from the wind.
Check Your Car in the Morning: If your windshield is frosty, let your car run for a few minutes before driving or use an ice scraper.
What’s Next for the Weather?
After this brief but potentially damaging frost, temperatures will start warming up again by Tuesday afternoon. Here’s a look at what to expect:
Tuesday (Feb 18): A chilly start with frost early, but temperatures warming up to 54°F (12°C) by the afternoon.
Wednesday (Feb 19): A cold and rainy day with temperatures struggling to reach 46°F (8°C). Expect chilly rain throughout the day.
Thursday (Feb 20): Partly sunny but cold, with highs only reaching 37°F (3°C) and overnight lows plunging to 19°F (-7°C).
Friday (Feb 21): A mix of sun and clouds, but still chilly with highs around 47°F (8°C).
Saturday (Feb 22): Sunny and slightly warmer, with highs reaching 49°F (10°C).
Sunday (Feb 23): A return to more typical Southern weather with highs near 56°F (13°C).
Final Thoughts – Don’t Underestimate This Frost!
While a frost advisory might not seem like a big deal, this unexpected cold could cause real problems if you don’t take precautions. Delicate plants, pets, and even your morning commute could be affected.
With temperatures bouncing back later in the week, this frost won’t last long—but that doesn’t mean it won’t leave damage behind. Take a few minutes tonight to cover your plants, bring in pets, and prepare for a chilly start to Tuesday.
