Carson City region braces for hard fall freeze; forecasters say bring in the pets, tomato plants – Carson Now

From sunny days and warm temperatures to anticipated overnight freezing ahead, fall weather will arrive over the next few days around the Carson City region, prompting a freeze watch by the National Weather Service and a warning for gardeners to bring in the tomato plants and other fall vegetables that haven't been harvested.

Multiple periods of widespread sub-freezing temperatures are likely the end of this week through early next week. While sub-freezing temperatures are expected Thursday night, a much colder air mass will plunge lows into the low-mid 20s in the warmest of valleys, with single digits and teens for colder valleys Sunday and Monday nights.

This is going to be quite the shock to the system after the warmth as of late, forecasters say, advising people to take the necessary precautions by protecting sensitive vegetation, prepping irrigation systems, protecting vulnerable populations, and be sure not to forget about pets.

The Freeze Watch is in effect for Thursday night through Friday morning and affects Carson City, Douglas, Lyon, Washoe and Storey counties and much of northern and western Nevada. Forecasters say to expect frost and freeze conditions that could kill crops, other sensitive vegetation and possibly damage unprotected outdoor plumbing.

The weather service warns this is the first of a series of upcoming anticipated freezes. After a warmer night Friday night, sub-freezing temperatures will return for Saturday through Tuesday nights. Lows may easily drop into the teens for valleys outside of urban centers Sunday and Monday nights.

To prevent freezing and possible bursting of outdoor water pipes, they should be wrapped, drained, or allowed to drip slowly. Those that have in-ground sprinkler systems should drain them and cover above-ground pipes to protect them from freezing.

Greenhouse Garden Center and Gift Shop in Carson City suggests homeowners take steps now to protect tender plants from the cold.

Watering can still happen twice a week for trees, shrubs and perennials. If you have herbs, they should be OK but vegetables should be harvested now. Sprinkler systems should be shut down entirely by the end of the month.

When shutting down the sprinkler system at the end of the month, you can still hook up your hose and water by hand. People should also check weather forecasts regularly, and make adjustments if necessary.

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Carson City region braces for hard fall freeze; forecasters say bring in the pets, tomato plants - Carson Now