Even though Thanksgiving is still 3 weeks away, Winter is already here for a large section of North Carolina.
A freeze warning has just been issued for the Charlotte region.
At 1145 AM this morning, the National Weather Service issued the following warning:
...FREEZE WARNING IN EFFECT FROM 1 AM TO 9 AM EST TUESDAY... * WHAT...Sub-freezing temperatures as low as 30 degrees expected. * WHERE...Portions of piedmont and western North Carolina, mainly north and west of a line from Tryon, to Gastonia, to Salisbury. * WHEN...From late tonight through Tuesday morning. * IMPACTS...Frost and freeze conditions will kill crops, other sensitive vegetation and possibly damage unprotected outdoor plumbing. PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS... Take steps now to protect tender plants from the cold. 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.
If the temperature drops just a few degrees lower than expected tonight, we could break the all-time record for November 2nd, which currently sits at 27 degrees;
02 Nov normals & records for Charlotte, GSP, & Asheville #ncwx #scwx #gawx pic.twitter.com/fM3ymSEONP
— NWS GSP (@NWSGSP) November 2, 2020
If you moved here from Ohio or New York (like myself), you may be rolling your eyes, but if you’re from Florida or California, you might need to make some changes to prepare for the coming winter temperatures.
To prepare your car, top off all your fluids, especially your oil, power steering fluid, and antifreeze. You’ll also want to check your tires and make sure your air pressure is over 32 PSI.
To prepare your home, make sure to drain all fountains and exterior water fixtures. Always let at least one of your faucets drip to avoid freezing pipes. Consider buying a humidifier if you’re sensitive to dry air. If you have an older home with older windows, investing in some shrink film insulation will save you a ton on your heating bill.
To prepare yourself, buy some thermal gloves, a warm hat, and a winter jacket. If you’re going to spend any length of time outside, you may even want to consider buying an electric heating jacket.
If you have a pet – make sure to read our article about how to keep your furry friend warm!