Tucson, AZ – Communities across southeastern Arizona are waking up to freezing temperatures this morning as a Freeze Warning remains in effect until 9 a.m. Friday. The National Weather Service says sub-freezing temperatures between 23 and 32 degrees could damage crops, sensitive plants, and exposed outdoor plumbing.
According to the National Weather Service, the warning covers Eastern Cochise County below 5,000 feet, the Sulphur Springs Valley, Upper San Pedro River Valley, and Upper Santa Cruz River Valley/Altar Valley. Cities affected include Willcox, Benson, Nogales, Douglas, Sierra Vista, Safford, Clifton, and several surrounding rural communities.
Forecasters report high probabilities of sub-freezing temperatures across the region, including 95% in Willcox, 90% in Benson and Patagonia, 85–90% in the Sonoita and Saint David areas, and a 70% chance in Douglas. Even a brief dip below freezing may cause damage to unprotected pipes or kill tender vegetation.
According to officials, residents should take immediate precautions by covering outdoor plants, bringing pets indoors, and wrapping or slowly dripping exposed pipes to prevent freezing. Cold air is expected to linger in low-lying areas through sunrise, with conditions improving by mid-morning.
The National Weather Service urges residents to act quickly, as these early-season freezes can have lasting impacts on local agriculture and home plumbing.
