Eureka, Calif. – Gardeners and growers across inland Mendocino and Lake counties should prepare for overnight temperatures dropping to around 31°F, cold enough to trigger frost formation between midnight and 9 a.m. Thursday.
According to the National Weather Service in Eureka, a Frost Advisory has been issued for the northwestern and northeastern Mendocino interior and northern Lake County. The advisory covers communities including Willits, Laytonville, Covelo, Potter Valley, and areas near Gravelly Valley Airport.
Cold air settling into inland valleys overnight will allow temperatures to fall near or slightly below freezing before sunrise Thursday. Rural valleys and low-lying agricultural areas are most likely to see frost forming on exposed surfaces, which can damage or kill sensitive plants.
Agricultural areas around Potter Valley and Covelo could experience the coldest readings just before the morning commute. Local growers and homeowners are urged to cover sensitive vegetation, move potted plants indoors, and protect irrigation lines if exposed.
Travel impacts are not expected, but early morning frost may appear on vehicles and grassy surfaces across inland valleys.
The advisory remains in effect from midnight Wednesday night through 9 a.m. Thursday, with temperatures expected to rise quickly after sunrise as sunshine returns to inland Northern California.
