Greenville, N.C. – Temperatures dropping to 35°F overnight could damage gardens and early spring crops across eastern North Carolina before sunrise Wednesday.
According to the National Weather Service in Newport/Morehead City, a Frost Advisory is in effect from midnight through 9 a.m. Wednesday for much of the coastal plain, including Pitt, Martin, Beaufort, Lenoir, Duplin, and Onslow counties. Clear skies and light winds will allow surface temperatures to fall quickly, creating ideal conditions for frost formation.
Communities including Greenville, Jacksonville, Kinston, Washington, and New Bern inland areas may see patchy frost develop on exposed surfaces, especially in low-lying and rural locations. Areas near rivers and farmland could see the most widespread impact, with sensitive vegetation at risk of damage or loss.
Gardeners and farmers should cover tender plants, bring potted vegetation indoors, and avoid watering overnight as temperatures drop. Residents heading out early Wednesday should also be aware of colder-than-usual conditions during the morning commute.
The frost threat will ease after 9 a.m. as temperatures rise, but additional advisories remain possible if similar conditions return later this week.
