Heat and Frost Advisories Highlight Weather Extremes
As a large portion of the southern United States deals with heat advisories due to high temperatures, frost advisories have been issued in five states. This duality of weather conditions serves as a reminder that the first hard freeze of the season is approaching even as warmth persists elsewhere.
Heat Alerts Across Southern States
Heat advisories were reported in Texas, Oklahoma, Kansas, Louisiana, Arkansas, Missouri, Illinois, Indiana, Kentucky, Tennessee, Alabama, and Mississippi. These advisories reflect a trend of significant heat recorded across the nation this summer. The Climate Prediction Center of the National Weather Service (NWS) projects above-average temperatures for most of the U.S. until the end of September.
Frost Advisories Signal Cooler Weather Ahead
Despite widespread warmth, NWS offices in Pocatello, Idaho; Gray, Maine; and Burlington, Vermont have issued frost advisories. These alerts, effective from early Tuesday, reflect cooling temperatures which could reach the low 30s. According to meteorologists, this marks the first frost advisory of the season in these areas, with more likely to follow.
Understanding Frost and Freeze Alerts
According to the National Centers for Environmental Information (NCEI), timing of cold temperatures aligns with historical climate patterns. The map of first freeze dates indicates northern states and high elevations in southern states experience earlier freezes.
Frost can occur even without temperatures dropping below freezing. Close to the ground, temperatures may be up to 5 degrees cooler, allowing frost to form and potentially damage plants and harm pets. The NWS issues frost advisories for air temperatures between 33 and 36 degrees on cool, clear nights. Freeze warnings are more serious, indicating widespread freezing temperatures that could damage crops.
Details of Current Frost Advisories
Maine’s advisory is active from 2 a.m. to 8 a.m. Tuesday, affecting Oxford County with temperatures as low as 33 degrees. In New Hampshire, Coos County faces similar conditions. Vermont’s advisory covers Essex County, with potential frost from 2 a.m. to 8 a.m. at temperatures of around 32 degrees.
In New York, Franklin, Clinton, and Essex counties will experience frost under NWS Burlington’s advisory. Idaho’s advisory spans 3 a.m. to 9 a.m., impacting multiple areas with temperatures possibly dropping to 34 degrees. Cities affected include Pocatello, Idaho Falls, and others.
For more information, contact Newsweek editors Jason Lemon and Anthony Murray.
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