Chilly Days Ahead: Arizona Braces for a Deep Freeze

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, and even parts of Eastern Cochise below 5, 000 feet. The weather service is urging everyone to take precautions. They suggest protecting plants from the cold and preventing water pipes from freezing. This means wrapping pipes, draining them, or letting them drip slowly. It's not just about comfort; it's about safety. A storm system moving through Arizona has already caused flight delays at Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport. The Phoenix area can expect rain and gusty winds, while northern and eastern Arizona will see snow as temperatures drop.The weather service has issued a statement with some chilling details. They expect sub-freezing temperatures, with lows of 20 to 25 degrees on Friday and 15 to 20 degrees on Saturday. These conditions can lead to frostbite, damage to crops, and even harm to pets left outdoors. The coldest temperatures will be felt between midnight and 9 a. m. each morning. It's important to understand the difference between a freeze watch, warning, and frost advisory. A freeze warning means temperatures will dip below 32 degrees for a long time, which can kill some plants. A hard freeze occurs at 28 degrees and can kill most plants. A freeze watch is issued when significant freezing temperatures are expected within 24 to 36 hours. A frost advisory means areas of frost that can harm sensitive plants. To protect plants from a freeze, cover them with frost cloths, blankets, towels, or even cardboard boxes. If possible, move plants indoors or under covered areas like porches or patios. Growing native plants can also help, as they are better equipped to handle colder desert nights.