Cheyenne, WY – Residents across central and southern Wyoming should prepare for a sharp drop in temperatures tonight, with the National Weather Service (NWS) warning of potentially damaging frost conditions.
According to the NWS office in Cheyenne, a Freeze Watch is in effect from late Tuesday night through Wednesday morning for Carbon County, Laramie Valley, Shirley Basin, and surrounding areas. Cities under the alert include Rawlins, Laramie, Saratoga, Baggs, Medicine Bow, and Elk Mountain.
Forecasters say temperatures could dip as low as 30 degrees overnight, bringing widespread frost. “Sub-freezing temperatures may harm or kill crops, gardens, and other sensitive plants. Outdoor plumbing may also be at risk if not properly insulated,” the agency reported early Tuesday morning.
The watch highlights a stretch of cooler-than-average late September weather. While daytime highs will remain mild in the 60s, overnight lows are expected to fall quickly under clear skies. This freeze potential could impact ranchers, gardeners, and anyone with exposed irrigation systems.
The NWS advises residents to take protective measures now. That includes covering or bringing in sensitive plants, draining garden hoses, and ensuring livestock water supplies are not affected by freezing conditions.
Drivers should also be alert for early-morning frost, especially in low-lying valleys and bridges where ice may form first.
The Freeze Watch is scheduled to expire by mid-morning Wednesday as temperatures rebound. However, more cold nights could be ahead as fall weather settles into the region.
