Moab, UT – A sudden drop in temperatures threatens outdoor plants and unprotected plumbing across southeast Utah, with a Freeze Watch in effect from late Saturday night through 9 a.m. Sunday.
According to the National Weather Service in Grand Junction, sub-freezing temperatures as low as 25 degrees Fahrenheit are possible in areas including Moab, Blanding, Bluff, and Mexican Hat, as well as parts of western Colorado such as Grand Junction and Fruita.
The alert covers both Arches/Grand Flat and Southeast Utah, with concerns that freezing conditions could kill sensitive vegetation, including early spring crops. Residents are urged to take immediate precautions, such as covering tender plants, disconnecting hoses, and insulating exposed outdoor pipes.
This early April freeze comes as a surprise following recent mild weather. Although overnight freezes are not uncommon in the high desert region, temperatures dropping this low pose a higher risk due to early planting and the region’s increasing reliance on residential gardening.
Temperatures are expected to rebound by Sunday afternoon, but until then, extra care is advised for gardeners, farmers, and homeowners throughout the affected counties.
