If you’ve been out enjoying the sunshine lately and finally getting your garden going—pause for just a second. We’ve got a bit of a spring curveball headed our way.
A Frost Advisory has been issued for over 20 counties across Central and East Illinois, and it’s sticking around through 8 AM Wednesday (April 16). Overnight temps are expected to dip down to around 33°F, which is just cold enough to put your outdoor plants at risk.
Yes—33 degrees. That’s “close-the-windows, maybe-see-your-breath, poor-little-tomatoes-are-shivering” kind of weather.
So What Does That Actually Mean?
Basically, if you’ve got plants outside—especially tender veggies, herbs, flowers, or freshly planted seedlings—they could be damaged by light frost. Even a thin layer can mess up new growth or worse, kill off more delicate plants.
If you’re in or near places like Champaign, Decatur, Mattoon, Springfield, or Effingham, you’re in the zone. But really, if you’re anywhere in Central or Eastern Illinois, it’s smart to play it safe tonight.
What You Can Do (and It’s Pretty Easy)
Cover up your plants – Grab an old sheet, a lightweight blanket, or a frost cloth if you have one. Just drape it gently over your plants before the sun goes down. Be sure to take it off in the morning so they can breathe and soak up that sunlight again.
Bring potted plants inside – Got some herbs or flowers in containers? Pop them into the garage, onto the porch, or even inside for the night.
Water your garden this evening – Moist soil holds onto heat better than dry soil, so a light watering before sunset can actually help keep the ground warm around your plants.
Don’t panic about frost-damaged leaves – If anything looks a little sad tomorrow, wait a couple days before you trim or tidy. Sometimes plants bounce back just fine, and pruning too soon can cause more harm than good.
Is Your Area Affected?
This advisory includes counties like: Champaign, Macon, Piatt, Logan, DeWitt, Douglas, Coles, Moultrie, Cumberland, and more. If you want the exact list or a map, check in with the National Weather Service – Central Illinois.
TL;DR
It’s a one-night cold snap. Nothing major, but if you’ve got plants you love, give them a little care before bed. A blanket for your begonias, a towel for your tomatoes—whatever works.
Stay cozy, keep your plants cozier, and let’s all get back to spring soon.
