A sudden plunge in temperatures is forecast for four central U.S. states, prompting the issuance of freeze warnings by the National Weather Service (NWS) for Missouri, Nebraska, Kansas, and South Dakota. Meteorologists predict temperatures dropping to the 20s overnight from daytime highs in the upper 50s and low 60s. The Aberdeen, South Dakota area is accustomed to such temperature fluctuations at this time of year, nearing the end of the growing season. The NWS also warned of potential crop damage and outdoor plumbing issues due to the freezing conditions. In addition to the four states, Minnesota, North Dakota, and Michigan were also under freeze warnings. Several other states had freeze watches and frost advisories in place, emphasizing the importance of protecting plants and outdoor plumbing.
AccuWeather’s winter forecast for 2024-2025 predicts slightly above-normal temperatures for most of the U.S. but below-normal temperatures for the Northwest, with California anticipating multiple atmospheric rivers this winter. The sudden temperature drop in the central U.S. states has put farmers and residents on high alert, especially those in the agriculture-heavy regions where crops are still in the ground. The unexpected transition from mild fall weather to freezing conditions poses a threat to vulnerable crops and outdoor infrastructure. As residents in these states prepare for the abrupt onset of winter-like conditions, it’s crucial for them to take necessary precautions to safeguard their plants and plumbing systems against potential damage.