Brace Yourself, Lowcountry: Frost Advisory Issued!

Brace Yourself, Lowcountry: Frost Advisory Issued!

Lowcountry Residents, Chill Out!

Good morning, Lowcountry! If you woke up feeling that brisk winter chill in the air, you’re not imagining things. The National Weather Service (NWS) has put out a frost advisory for several counties this Saturday morning, and you might want to take a moment to check on your garden!

What’s Going On?

Starting at 12:49 a.m., the frost advisory became effective for the area, particularly from 1 a.m. to 9 a.m., which means we’re in the heart of chilly weather right now. Counties affected include Coastal Bryan, Coastal Chatham, Inland McIntosh, and the ever-beautiful Beaufort County. Over in South Carolina, watch out if you’re living in Coastal Colleton and Coastal Jasper! Temperatures are set to hang around the low to mid-30s, which can definitely lead to some frosty mornings.

Why Should You Care?

Your sensitive outdoor plants may be in a bit of a pickle today! According to the NWS, these frigid temps may cause frost to form, and that’s a problem for any tender vegetation you might have outside. The advisory sternly warns, “Frost could harm sensitive outdoor vegetation. Sensitive outdoor plants may be killed if left uncovered.” Yikes! We all love our gardens, so let’s save those delicate blooms.

What to Do?

So, what’s a concerned plant parent to do? Well, the NWS suggests you take action now! Here are a few quick tips:

• Cover Up: Before the sun sets on that delicate foliage, think of covering your plants with blankets, burlap or any old cloth you might have around. This will help keep additional warmth around those sensitive little ones.
• Bring Them Inside: If you’ve got pots that are easy to move, why not bring them indoors for the night? Your plants will thank you for the cozy indoor treatment!

Frost Advisory Facts

Now, you might be wondering how often frost advisories are issued. The NWS generally sends out these advisories from May to October, although they can happen longer if the weather calls for it. Frost typically occurs when temperatures dip to 36 degrees Fahrenheit or below, which is what we’re dealing with right now!

And don’t forget, if the frost is especially severe, it could end the growing season altogether—a phenomenon known as a killing frost. We certainly don’t want that!

Final Thoughts

Stay warm, folks! Whether you’re nestled at home enjoying a cup of coffee or bundled up in your winter attire, make sure your green friends outdoors are safe from the elements. The good news is that the frost advisory wraps up by 9 a.m., so hold tight—warmer weather is just around the corner.

Happy gardening, and take care out there! If you find a way to protect your plants, don’t forget to share your tips with friends and neighbors. After all, we could all use a little help when it comes to keeping our gardens thriving!