Chilly Days Ahead: Arizona Braces for a Deep Freeze
Freeze Warning Issued for Several Areas
Arizona is not just about scorching sun and cacti. It can get pretty cold too! The National Weather Service in Tucson issued a freeze warning on Thursday, Jan. 8. This warning covers several areas, including:
- Upper San Pedro River Valley
- Sierra Vista
- Benson
- Parts of Eastern Cochise below 5,000 feet
Precautions Urged
The weather service is urging everyone to take precautions. They suggest:
- Protecting plants from the cold
- Preventing water pipes from freezing
This means:
- Wrapping pipes
- Draining them
- Letting them drip slowly
It's not just about comfort; it's about safety.
Storm System Causes Disruptions
A storm system moving through Arizona has already caused:
- Flight delays at Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport
The Phoenix area can expect:
- Rain
- Gusty winds
Northern and eastern Arizona will see:
- Snow
- Dropping temperatures
Chilling Details
The weather service has issued a statement with some chilling details. They expect:
- Sub-freezing temperatures
- Lows of 20 to 25 degrees on Friday
- Lows of 15 to 20 degrees on Saturday
These conditions can lead to:
- Frostbite
- Damage to crops
- Harm to pets left outdoors
The coldest temperatures will be felt between midnight and 9 a.m. each morning.
Understanding Weather Alerts
It's important to understand the difference between:
- Freeze Warning: Temperatures will dip below 32 degrees for a long time, which can kill some plants.
- Hard Freeze: Occurs at 28 degrees and can kill most plants.
- Freeze Watch: Issued when significant freezing temperatures are expected within 24 to 36 hours.
- Frost Advisory: Areas of frost that can harm sensitive plants.
Protecting Plants
To protect plants from a freeze, cover them with:
- Frost cloths
- Blankets
- Towels
- Even cardboard boxes
If possible, move plants:
- Indoors
- Under covered areas like porches or patios
Growing native plants can also help, as they are better equipped to handle colder desert nights.
