Freeze Watch Issued for Central Indiana

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The National Weather Service has issued a freeze watch for parts of central Indiana, including Johnson, Shelby, and Decatur counties, as overnight temperatures are forecast to drop low enough to potentially damage sensitive vegetation and outdoor pipes.

Why it matters

Freezing temperatures this late in the spring can pose a serious threat to local agriculture, as well as cause costly damage to homes and businesses if pipes burst. Residents and farmers will need to take precautions to protect their property.

The details

Forecasters say the cold snap could bring temperatures low enough to kill crops and other sensitive plants. Homeowners and business owners are advised to wrap, drain, or allow outdoor water pipes to drip slowly to prevent freezing and potential bursting. In-ground sprinkler systems should also be drained and covered.

• The freeze watch is in effect from tonight through Tuesday morning.
• The normal last freeze date for the Columbus area is April 12, with the latest last freeze occurring on May 27, 1965.

What’s next

Residents should take steps to protect their property from the expected freezing temperatures, such as insulating outdoor pipes and covering sensitive plants.