Weather
Northern California Freeze Alert: Lows Near 26° Monday Oct 12
Eureka, CA – Northern California residents are facing a chilly start to the week as temperatures could plunge into the 20s and 30s overnight Sunday, October 11, bringing the possibility of frost and f
By Mason Reid · 2026-10-11T18:29:03.829Z
Eureka, CA – Northern California residents are facing a chilly start to the week as temperatures could plunge into the 20s and 30s overnight Sunday, October 11, bringing the possibility of frost and freezing conditions across several interior valleys early Monday morning.
According to the National Weather Service in Eureka, near freezing to below freezing temperatures are possible across portions of Trinity, interior Mendocino, interior Humboldt and northern Lake counties Monday, October 12.
Forecasters warn that sensitive outdoor plants could be damaged by the cold, particularly in sheltered valleys where temperatures are expected to fall the lowest.
Temperatures Could Drop Into the 20s
The National Weather Service's latest temperature forecast highlights significant differences between coastal communities and inland valleys.
Hayfork, in Trinity County, is forecast to drop to approximately 26 degrees, while Ruth could reach around 29 degrees.
Weaverville is expected to fall near 33 degrees, and Trinity Center could experience temperatures around 30 degrees.
Farther south, interior Mendocino County communities could also experience chilly conditions, with temperatures near 31 degrees around Gravelly Valley Airport.
Meanwhile, coastal locations such as Eureka and Fort Bragg are expected to remain considerably milder, with lows generally in the 40s.
Frost Threatens Sensitive Plants
The National Weather Service specifically advises residents to protect sensitive vegetation from possible frost and freezing temperatures.
Plants left exposed overnight may experience damage when temperatures fall to freezing or below, especially in colder interior valleys.
Residents with gardens, potted plants or vulnerable outdoor vegetation should consider moving plants indoors or covering them before temperatures drop Sunday night.
Cold Weather Precautions for Pets
Forecasters also encourage residents to provide adequate shelter for outdoor pets during the overnight cold.
Animals exposed to freezing conditions should have access to a protected, dry and appropriately warm environment.
The coldest conditions are expected overnight into early Monday morning, particularly across inland valleys away from the moderating influence of the Pacific Ocean.
Residents throughout the affected counties should monitor updated local forecasts as temperatures vary significantly by elevation and location.