Durango, Colo. – Farmers and gardeners across southwest Colorado should brace for a sudden freeze as temperatures plunge to 23°F overnight, putting crops and outdoor plumbing at risk.
According to the National Weather Service in Grand Junction, a Freeze Warning is in effect from midnight Wednesday through 8 a.m. Thursday for the Four Corners/Upper Dolores River, Animas River Basin, and San Juan River Basin. Cities impacted include Durango, Cortez, Pagosa Springs, and Bayfield.
The cold snap is expected to damage or kill unprotected plants and may affect exposed water lines. Residents in affected areas, including Mesa Verde National Park and surrounding communities, are urged to cover sensitive vegetation, bring potted plants indoors, and insulate outdoor faucets.
The warning comes unusually late in the season, increasing concern for agricultural losses in areas like Ignacio and Dove Creek. Gardeners and ranchers should act quickly, as this level of freeze can severely impact early planting efforts.
Temperatures are forecast to rise after sunrise Thursday, but more frost advisories could follow later this week depending on overnight lows. Stay tuned to local alerts for any updates.
