Willits, California – Gardeners and growers across Northern California should prepare for early morning frost Tuesday, as temperatures dip to around 30°F between 3 a.m. and 9 a.m., creating conditions that could damage sensitive vegetation.
According to the National Weather Service in Eureka, a Frost Advisory is in effect from 3 a.m. to 9 a.m. Tuesday for parts of Mendocino County, Lake County, Del Norte County, and the northern Humboldt coast. Cold overnight temperatures combined with light winds will allow frost to form across inland valleys and some coastal areas.
Communities expected to see the coldest temperatures include Willits, Laytonville, Covelo, Potter Valley, Calpella, Philo, and Leggett, along with parts of Lake County and coastal areas near Fieldbrook. Low-lying valleys and rural areas typically cool the fastest before sunrise.
Frost at 30°F can quickly damage or kill tender plants, especially newly planted crops, garden vegetables, and ornamental plants left exposed overnight.
Residents are urged to cover sensitive plants, bring potted vegetation indoors, or use frost cloths and blankets to protect gardens before temperatures drop overnight.
Temperatures are expected to rise quickly after sunrise Tuesday, but forecasters say additional chilly mornings remain possible across inland Northern California as clear skies continue behind the latest weather system.
