Midwest Alert: First Freeze Watch of Fall Issued Through Saturday — Is Your Home Ready?

Bismarck, ND – It’s only early September, but the Midwest is already facing its first freeze watch of the fall season. The National Weather Service has issued the alert for parts of North Dakota beginning late Friday night into Saturday morning, warning of sub-freezing temperatures as low as 28 degrees.

According to the weather service, the sudden drop could put gardens, crops, and outdoor plants at immediate risk. Homeowners are urged to take quick precautions — cover sensitive plants, bring potted vegetation inside, and secure outdoor items that could be damaged by strong winds.

The advisory serves as a reminder that cold weather is coming faster than expected. Residents are encouraged to prepare their homes now: check outdoor faucets, protect pets and livestock, and make sure heating systems are ready in case temperatures continue to trend downward.

Officials say frost and freeze conditions this early in September are unusual, but not unheard of, and can cause costly damage if precautions aren’t taken. Residents should monitor forecasts closely as the freeze watch could be upgraded to a warning if conditions worsen.

Here’s a list of 10 often-overlooked things homeowners can do to prepare for fall and winter:

1. Cover or disconnect outdoor faucets and hoses – Prevents frozen pipes and costly bursts.
2. Check furnace and replace filters – A dirty filter makes your system work harder and less efficiently.
3. Inspect your chimney and fireplace – Creosote buildup is a major fire hazard.
4. Seal gaps around windows and doors – Even small drafts can raise heating bills significantly.
5. Clean gutters and downspouts – Blocked gutters can freeze, causing ice dams and roof damage.
6. Reverse ceiling fans – Switching them clockwise pushes warm air down into the room.
7. Service your snowblower and stock up on salt – Waiting until the first snowfall often means empty store shelves.
8. Trim tree branches near your roof – Heavy snow and ice can snap limbs and cause damage.
9. Test carbon monoxide and smoke detectors – Heating systems increase the risk of CO leaks.
10. Prepare an emergency kit – Include blankets, flashlights, batteries, and non-perishable food in case of power outages.

This article was produced by a journalist and may include AI-assisted input. All content is reviewed for accuracy and fairness.
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