Freeze Watch Issued for Saline County Friday Night Into Saturday Morning
The National Weather Service in Wichita has issued a Freeze Watch for Saline County from 1 a.m. to 9 a.m. Saturday, Oct. 17. Temperatures could drop as low as 30 degrees.
The watch also covers Barton, Ellsworth, Lincoln and Russell counties.
What the Watch Means
According to the Weather Service, frost and freeze conditions could kill crops and other sensitive plants. They could also damage outdoor plumbing that isn't protected. Forecasters are urging residents to "take steps now to protect tender plants from the cold."
Salina Forecast
Friday will be mostly sunny with a high near 55. North-northwest winds of 20 to 25 mph could gust as high as 36 mph.
Friday night will be mostly clear with a low around 31, and frost is expected to form after 2 a.m. Widespread frost is likely before 9 a.m. Saturday.
Saturday afternoon warms up to a high near 60 under sunny skies.
Right on Schedule
Based on National Weather Service normals for 1991–2020, Salina's average first freeze comes around Oct. 21, so a freeze this weekend would be right on time for the season.
How to Prepare
- Bring potted plants indoors or cover them with sheets or blankets Friday evening.
- Disconnect garden hoses and cover outdoor faucets.
- Remove plant coverings Saturday morning once temperatures rise.
Source: National Weather Service, Wichita
