A frost warning is in effect for Salina and the surrounding areas – temperatures could drop to 29 degrees

NWS

The National Weather Service in Wichita has issued a freeze warning for much of central and south-central Kansas, including Saline County. The watch is in effect from late Tuesday night into Wednesday morning as temperatures could fall as low as 29 degrees in some areas.

The affected region includes towns such as Salina, McPherson, Hutchinson, Great Bend and Marion, where residents should take precautions to protect sensitive plants, crops and outdoor plumbing from possible freeze and freeze damage.

Frost monitoring highlights the risk to agricultural crops and any outdoor plants that may still be thriving in mid-October. Gardeners and farmers are encouraged to take preventative measures by covering plants or bringing them indoors if possible. Additionally, exterior pipes should be insulated or drained to prevent possible freezing and damage.

Freezing conditions are expected to develop late Tuesday evening and continue into Wednesday morning.

FROST

Frost occurs when there is a solid buildup of water vapor from the air. Frost forms when solid surfaces are cooled below the dew point. Typically, an air temperature between 33° and 36° (or colder) and light winds are required to initiate frost formation. At least minor damage to plants is possible. It is important to remember that frost is not guaranteed when the air is very dry and/or the wind blows more than 8 miles per hour.

FREEZE

Frost occurs when the temperature drops to 32°C or below. A freeze causes significant damage to many unprotected plants, especially if the temperature remains at or below freezing for several hours.

HARD FREEZE