Central Illinois Set to Freeze Tonight—Here’s What You Need to Protect Now!
Springfield, IL – A hard freeze warning has been issued for Central Illinois, with temperatures expected to fall sharply late Monday night and into early Tuesday morning. The National Weather Service warns that the cold snap could damage sensitive vegetation and pose risks to outdoor plumbing.
When and Where the Freeze Will Hit
The warning is in effect from midnight Monday until 9 AM Tuesday, covering a wide area of Central Illinois, including Springfield, Decatur, Bloomington-Normal, and surrounding counties. Forecasters predict overnight lows to drop into the upper 20s and low 30s, which is cold enough to freeze exposed surfaces and soil.
This sudden drop in temperatures comes after a stretch of mild spring weather that encouraged early planting and outdoor activity, making the timing of the freeze especially concerning for farmers and gardeners.
Farmers, Gardeners Urged to Protect Plants
The upcoming freeze could harm early crops, budding trees, and flower beds that have already started blooming. The NWS urges residents to cover or bring any vulnerable plants inside and disconnect garden hoses to avoid pipe damage.
“Temperatures this low can kill crops and flowers that have already started growing,” said meteorologist Greg Watson with the NWS in Lincoln. “If you’ve planted early, take action now.”
Homeowners Should Prepare Too
In addition to plant protection, the warning includes guidance for homeowners to:
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Wrap exposed pipes, especially in unheated areas like garages or crawl spaces
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Bring pets indoors or provide warm shelter
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Avoid leaving vehicles parked outside overnight, if possible, to prevent frost buildup
Authorities emphasize that this type of freeze, known as a “hard freeze,” means several hours of subfreezing temperatures — enough to do lasting damage if precautions aren’t taken.
Not Unusual, But Still a Threat
While late-season freezes are not uncommon in Illinois, they can catch people off guard. Just last year, a similar freeze in early April caused significant agricultural losses in parts of the Midwest.
Meteorologists say this cold snap should be brief, with temperatures rebounding by midweek. However, residents are encouraged to keep an eye on future forecasts, as more spring cold fronts are possible in the coming weeks.
