Central Missouri, the cold snap is almost here! If you’ve been enjoying the mild weather recently, it’s time to brace for a sudden change. Starting Sunday night through Monday morning, temperatures are expected to drop to freezing levels, and a Frost Warning has been issued for the region. That means if you’re not careful, you could face some serious issues—frosted plants, frozen pipes, and a whole lot of inconvenience. But don’t worry, there’s still time to get ready.
What’s Coming Your Way:
We’re talking about a sharp drop in temperatures. Starting Sunday night, the mercury will drop to 32°F (0°C) or even lower across Central Missouri, including areas like Columbia, Jefferson City, and neighboring counties. This freeze will last all the way into Monday morning, meaning frost and ice will be on the ground. If you have anything sensitive outside, now’s the time to get prepared.
Why This Freeze Matters:
You might think, “It’s just a little cold,” but freezing temperatures can cause major issues. Here’s what could be at risk:
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Your Garden and Plants: If you’ve been nurturing a garden or have any plants outside, this freeze could be bad news. Frost can quickly damage or even kill sensitive plants, especially if they’re not protected. If you want to save your flowers, veggies, or shrubs, cover them up with sheets, blankets, or tarps. If they’re in pots, bring them inside. Even a cold garage will give them a better shot at surviving the freeze.
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Frozen Pipes: This is a big one—frozen pipes can be a homeowner’s nightmare. When temperatures dip below freezing, the water inside pipes can freeze and expand, causing pipes to burst. That can lead to water damage that costs a lot to fix. To avoid this, make sure your pipes are wrapped and insulated. Foam pipe covers or even old towels can do the trick. And don’t forget to drip a faucet overnight to keep the water moving and prevent freezing.
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Your Car: If you’re parked outside, your car might not be safe from the cold. Freezing temperatures can affect your battery, your antifreeze, and your tires. Make sure everything is in good shape before the cold hits. If you don’t have a garage, consider covering your car to protect it from frost buildup.
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Farmers, Pay Attention: For those who depend on crops or outdoor equipment, this freeze could be a real concern. Sensitive crops could be damaged, and outdoor equipment might not function properly in freezing conditions. If you’re a farmer, be sure to cover your crops and secure any equipment before the freeze arrives.
How to Get Ready:
The good news is that there’s still time to take a few simple steps to protect your property. Here’s what you can do:
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Cover your plants: If you’ve got plants outside, they’ll need extra protection. Blankets, sheets, or tarps work great for covering plants. If they’re in pots, bring them inside or move them to a sheltered spot like your porch or garage. Even a little extra protection can go a long way.
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Wrap your pipes: Exposed pipes are one of the easiest things to overlook, but they’re also one of the biggest risks during a freeze. Wrap them up with foam insulation or even old towels to keep them safe. And don’t forget, letting a faucet drip overnight will keep water flowing and prevent pipes from freezing.
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Check your car: Make sure your car is ready for the cold. Check your antifreeze levels, make sure your battery is good, and if you park outside, consider covering your car to prevent frost buildup. A little prep now can save you a lot of trouble later.
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Take care of your pets: If you have pets that stay outside, it’s time to bring them inside. Cold temperatures can be dangerous for pets, especially if they’re not used to freezing weather. If you can’t bring them inside, make sure they have a warm, dry shelter.
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Farmers, protect your crops: If you rely on farming, cover your crops to shield them from the freeze. Use frost cloths, blankets, or tarps to help keep the plants safe from the cold. It’s a small effort now that could protect your hard work in the long run.
What to Expect:
Here’s what you can expect as the cold front moves in:
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Sunday night: After the sun sets, temperatures will quickly drop to 32°F (0°C) or lower. Expect frost to develop on the ground and any exposed surfaces. If you haven’t taken action yet, now’s the time to cover your plants and protect anything sensitive to the cold.
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Monday morning: Waking up on Monday, the temperatures will still be hovering around freezing. You’ll likely see icy roads and slick surfaces. Take extra care on your morning commute and give yourself a little extra time to get where you need to go.
A freeze like this may only last a short time, but it can cause a lot of damage if you don’t prepare. Whether it’s your garden, your pipes, or your car, taking a few minutes to get ready will save you a lot of hassle down the road.
