Weather Service Urges Growers to Take Precautions
The National Weather Service, San Joaquin Valley/Hanford has issued a Freeze Warning in effect from 2 AM TONIGHT until 9 AM Wednesday for the central and southern San Joaquin Valley areas.
A very cold weather system will move into the region starting tonight; below freezing low temperatures are expected as early as tonight in the San Joaquin Valley and the Kern County desert by Wednesday night. Subfreezing temperatures will likely last through Friday morning over much of the central California interior.
Jim Andersen, Meteorologist in the Hanford Weather Forecast Office confirmed that a Freeze Warning issued for tonight forecasts 28-32°F.
Andersen confirmed also that a Hard Freeze Watch is in effect from midnight Wednesday through Friday night for rural areas of the San Joaquin Valley with temperatures expected between 22 – 27°F. Saturday temperatures are expected to be warmer.
Andersen says these conditions are dangerous to all farmers in the region, particularly citrus farmers because there is still fruit on the trees. He urges all farmers to take precautions to mitigate damage to their livestock and plants.
This cold weather is unusual for early December. It is generally expected in late December and January, when citrus trees no longer carry fruit.
A common remember for frost conditions is to protect the 4 P’s: People, plants, pets, and pipes!
For more information, call the Frost Telephone numbers:
559-592-4140 or 800-713-7678
Information is UPDATED DAILY AT 10:00 AM AND 4:00 PM.
