Harrisburg, PA – Temperatures could bring to 25°F late Tuesday night, creating a high risk for crop damage and widespread frost across central Pennsylvania before sunrise Wednesday.
According to the National Weather Service in State College, a Freeze Watch is in effect from late Tuesday night through Wednesday morning for south-central counties including Dauphin, York, Lancaster, and Cumberland. Forecasters say ideal radiational cooling conditions will allow temperatures to drop quickly overnight, with the coldest readings expected just before daybreak.
Cities including Harrisburg, Lancaster, York, and Carlisle are likely to see widespread frost, while rural and low-lying areas near Gettysburg and Chambersburg could fall closer to 25°F. These conditions pose a significant threat to early-season crops, flowering trees, and sensitive vegetation already emerging after recent mild weather.
Residents are urged to cover plants, bring potted vegetation indoors, and insulate exposed outdoor plumbing before midnight Tuesday. Agricultural interests should take protective measures to limit potential losses.
Temperatures will recover after mid-morning Wednesday, but additional cold alerts may follow if clear skies persist through the rest of the week.
