A significant drop in temperatures is anticipated to sweep across much of Indiana late Monday, triggering a Freeze Watch that could disrupt gardens, agriculture, and daily activities.
The National Weather Service in Indianapolis predicts sub-freezing temperatures as low as 23°F from late Monday night to Tuesday morning, with the watch in effect from 1 a.m. to 10 a.m. EDT Tuesday. The advisory affects a large area of the state, including Indianapolis, Lafayette, Bloomington, Terre Haute, Muncie, and Columbus.
If sensitive vegetation and early-season crops are not adequately protected, they may be damaged or destroyed. We urge residents to immediately take precautions, like covering or moving sensitive plants indoors.
April freezes are not uncommon in Indiana, but temperatures in the low 20s provide a higher risk, especially after recent milder weather.
The counties affected include central, north central, east central, south central, and southwest Indiana. The cold air mass moving in is likely to be brief but severe, with average April lows ranging from 35°F to 42°F across the state.
Local agricultural organizations and extension offices encourage farmers and gardeners to regularly monitor temperatures and plan frost prevention strategies.