Pendleton, Oregon – Residents across Eastern Oregon and Washington should brace for a hard freeze overnight, with temperatures expected to plummet to 28°F by early Tuesday. The National Weather Service has issued a Freeze Warning from midnight through 9 a.m., putting crops, gardens, and unprotected plumbing at risk.
According to the National Weather Service in Spokane, the warning covers the Foothills of the Northern Blue Mountains of Oregon, including Pendleton, Athena, and Pilot Rock, as well as Kittitas Valley, Yakima Valley, and the Washington foothills, including Yakima, Ellensburg, Sunnyside, and Walla Walla.
Sensitive vegetation and budding crops could suffer damage, especially in agricultural areas like Yakima and Toppenish. Residents are urged to cover tender plants, bring potted vegetation indoors, and insulate outdoor pipes to prevent freezing.
This cold snap follows an unseasonably mild April stretch, making it especially dangerous for early growers and gardeners.
Temperatures are expected to rise after 9 a.m. Tuesday, but another advisory may be issued if freezing conditions return later in the week.
