Burnsville, N.C. – A freeze watch is in effect for the northern North Carolina mountains late Thursday night through Friday morning, as temperatures could plunge to 28 degrees. The National Weather Service in Greenville-Spartanburg warns that sub-freezing temperatures may damage crops, gardens, and exposed plumbing across Avery, Yancey, and Mitchell counties.
According to the National Weather Service, the alert covers higher elevations including Burnsville, Newland, Spruce Pine, and Banner Elk. The coldest period is expected just before sunrise Friday, when clear skies and calm winds could allow rapid temperature drops.
Residents are urged to protect tender vegetation, drain outdoor water lines, and ensure pets have warm shelter. Farmers and gardeners should take precautions to cover or move sensitive plants indoors.
The first widespread freeze of the season typically signals the end of the growing season across the Blue Ridge region. Additional frost advisories or freeze warnings may be issued if temperatures fall further by early weekend.
Warnings remain in effect through Friday morning as the coldest air of the fall settles across western North Carolina.
