If you’re planning to head out early Friday morning or have some outdoor plans, you might want to rethink your strategy. A Freeze Warning is in effect for Moab and Grand Junction, with temperatures dipping below freezing, possibly hitting the mid-20s in the early hours. That means frost, chilly roads, and some potential headaches for both gardeners and commuters. Here’s everything you need to know to prepare for this cold snap.
Here’s What You Can Expect:
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A Hard Freeze: Tonight, we’re looking at sub-freezing temperatures, with lows expected to drop below 32°F. If you’re the proud owner of a garden or some delicate plants, this is the kind of freeze that could do some serious damage. So, if you’ve got anything outside that’s been enjoying the relatively mild weather, it’s time to protect it. Frost can form quickly when the temperatures fall this low, and that could kill off sensitive vegetation.
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Icy Roads: While we’re not expecting a snowstorm, the freezing temps will cause frost to form on the roads—particularly on bridges, overpasses, and higher elevations. That could make driving dangerous early Friday morning. If you’re out at dawn, be prepared for icy patches that could sneak up on you, especially in areas that aren’t fully exposed to sunlight. Early commuters, take it slow!
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Timing of the Freeze: The worst of the cold will arrive late Thursday night, dipping well below freezing just before sunrise. The freeze will last until 9 AM Friday, so your Friday morning might start off a lot chillier than you’d like. Prepare for a frosty, icy start to your day.
Why This Matters:
This freeze could catch a lot of people off guard, especially since it’s happening so early in the season. Here’s why you should pay attention to the warning:
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Plant Damage: If you have any plants that are sensitive to the cold, they’re at risk. The freezing temperatures could damage them beyond repair. Any flowers or crops you’ve been nurturing through the fall could be harmed by the frost, turning them brown or even killing them off completely. If you’ve got plants you want to protect, bring them inside or cover them up with blankets or tarps for the night.
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Slippery Roads: While we’re not dealing with a blizzard, the frost on the road could make things tricky. If you’re planning to drive early Friday, be extra cautious. Bridges and overpasses freeze first, so those spots will be especially treacherous. You might not see the ice right away, but it’ll be there, making it hard to control your car. Early morning commuters, it’s time to slow down and stay alert.
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A Reminder That Winter Is Coming: While we may still be in fall, this cold snap is a warning sign of what’s to come. Winter is just around the corner, and this early freeze is a reminder to get your home and vehicle ready for colder days ahead. You might want to think about some winterizing tasks—whether that’s covering up your plants, checking your pipes, or making sure your car is prepared for winter driving.
How to Stay Safe and Get Ready:
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Protect Your Plants: The easiest thing you can do right now is protect your plants. If they’re in pots, bring them inside, or at least cover them up with blankets, towels, or frost cloth. Don’t forget to cover any sensitive flowers or trees with tarps if they’re still outside. For larger plants, you can also use burlap to shield them from the cold. It’s a small effort that can save your garden from a harsh freeze.
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Drive with Caution: If you’re planning to head out early Friday, be prepared for slippery roads. While the frost might not be visible in all areas, it can still cause major issues—especially on bridges and overpasses. Keep your speed slow, stay at a safe distance from other cars, and watch for areas that might be covered in ice. Take it easy until the roads warm up.
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Bundle Up: Early mornings are going to be pretty chilly, so make sure to layer up before heading out. A warm coat, gloves, scarf, and hat will help keep you comfortable while the temperatures are still low. Even though the sun will warm things up later in the day, those early hours will be downright cold.
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Check Your Pipes: Freeze warnings aren’t just about your plants and travel. They also pose a threat to your plumbing. Outdoor pipes and faucets are at risk of freezing, which could lead to bursts and leaks. If you haven’t already, wrap up your outdoor pipes and faucets, or leave a small drip running from your faucet overnight to prevent freezing.
What’s Coming Next:
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Cold Morning Ahead: Friday morning will be a cold one, with temperatures hovering in the 20s or low 30s. So don’t be surprised if you step outside and feel that sharp, biting cold. If you have an early morning commute, you’ll likely see frost on your windshield, and maybe even a little ice on your car or driveway.
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Slow Warming: After the cold morning, the temperature will slowly climb, but don’t expect a rapid warm-up. While the sun will come out, it’s going to take a while for things to warm up significantly. Make sure you’re prepared for a long, chilly start to your Friday.
