Freeze Warning Tonight: Protect Plants as Temps Drop to 27 Degrees

A freeze warning is in effect tonight across northern Delaware and the Philadelphia area, with temperatures expected to plummet to a dangerous 27 degrees. The National Weather Service issued the warning this afternoon for New Castle County and southeastern Pennsylvania, effective from midnight tonight through 9 AM Tuesday morning. Meteorologists warn that sub-freezing temperatures and frost conditions could kill crops and sensitive vegetation that may have already started growing in the spring weather. Outdoor plumbing that isn’t properly protected could also suffer damage from the overnight freeze. Residents should take immediate action to protect tender plants and flowers. Bring potted plants indoors if possible, or cover outdoor vegetation with blankets, tarps, or specialized frost cloth. Don’t forget to disconnect and drain garden hoses and shut off outdoor water valves. This late-season freeze is particularly concerning as many plants across Delmarva have already begun their spring growth cycle, making them more vulnerable to cold damage. The freeze warning expires at 9 AM Tuesday, with temperatures expected to warm throughout the day. However, gardeners should wait until after sunrise to remove any protective coverings from plants. Stay with TV Delmarva for the latest weather updates.