Oneida County, NY – The National Weather Service (NWS) has issued a frost advisory for Oneida County on Saturday, warning residents of overnight temperatures that could damage sensitive outdoor plants. The advisory was released at 1:34 a.m. on Friday and is valid from 2 a.m. to 8 a.m. Saturday.
What to Expect
The weather service says that overnight lows are expected to fall between 32 and 36 degrees, creating areas of frost early Saturday morning. In some low-lying areas on the Tug Hill, temperatures could briefly fall below freezing, increasing the risk to tender vegetation.
Impact on Plants
Frost can be particularly damaging to sensitive outdoor plants, including flowers, vegetables, and young shrubs. According to the NWS:
- Sensitive plants may be killed if left uncovered
- Gardeners should take steps now to protect tender plants from the cold
Residents are advised to cover plants with blankets or tarps before sunset to help retain heat near the plants. Alternatively, move potted or delicate plants indoors overnight, if possible.
What a Frost Advisory Means
Frost advisories are generally issued from May through October, though they can be extended if necessary. The NWS issues the warning when temperatures, winds, and sky cover create favorable conditions for frost development.
- Frost is most likely when temperatures drop to 36 degrees or lower
- In some cases, frost is severe enough to end the growing season, which is then referred to as a “killing frost”
How to Prepare
The NWS recommends taking precautions such as:
- Covering plants with blankets, sheets, or frost cloths
- Moving potted plants indoors or into a garage
- Checking weather updates for any changes in advisory times
By taking simple steps, residents can protect sensitive vegetation and prevent damage during the early Saturday frost.
Do you have sensitive plants in your garden? How do you plan to protect them from Saturday’s frost? Share your tips in the comments below.
