Clarion, Pa. – Gardeners across northwest Pennsylvania should act fast — a surprise cold snap could damage outdoor plants early Tuesday as frost moves in overnight.
According to the National Weather Service in Pittsburgh, a Frost Advisory is in effect from 2 a.m. to 8 a.m. Tuesday for Venango, Forest, Clarion, and Jefferson Counties, including Punxsutawney, Oil City, Brookville, and Franklin. Temperatures may fall to 33°F, cold enough to produce frost that could harm or kill sensitive vegetation.
If you’re in these areas, it’s best to cover plants or bring them indoors before temperatures dip. While this isn’t uncommon for May in parts of Pennsylvania, it comes late enough in the season that many residents may have already planted gardens or set out flowers.
Even sheltered spots like backyards in Tionesta or side streets in Clarion could see patchy frost before sunrise. Rural valleys may be especially vulnerable.
The advisory ends at 8 a.m., but any early-morning gardeners should be cautious. Another round of cold air isn’t expected this week, but this may not be the last brush with frost for higher elevations.
