From protecting your plants to wrapping your pipes, here’s what you need to know.
SAN ANTONIO — Forecast guidance and computer models are now on board with the idea of cold polar air pushing south into Texas.
The timing on the change will arrive on January 6. The first burst of cold air will move through the region Monday morning dropping daytime highs into the 50s.
Temperatures eventually will fall into the 40s and 30s area wide by Tuesday. Most importantly, this will mean several nights at or below freezing, especially across the Hill Country.
So, preparation for this winter blast begins now. If you have plants in pots around your home, prepare to bring them in by next Monday night.
If they’re in your front and back yard, find a reliable tarp. The little heat the surface emits at night can be retained by a tarp. Also, this can protect plants and vegetation from any surrounding moisture or wintry precipitation.
We’re not expecting a widespread pipe problem in the area. However, it is good to prepare just in case. Finding or purchasing covers and insulation for piping around your home is vital. This will help with any future bursts around the house.
According to the National Weather Service, the temperature threshold for pipes and plants is 21 and 28 degrees.
Moreover, for pipes, our temperatures would have to drop below 21 degrees for 18 hours or more to create widespread problems. For plants, it’s 28 degrees or colder for more than 6 hours.
Also, don’t forget to flush out water from your irrigation system. This is important for homeowners and their sprinklers.
Our daytime highs each day next week will rise well above freezing, so consecutive hours below freezing will NOT be a concern.
However, cold overnights with temperatures below freezing for 6-10 hours will be monitored especially across the Hill Country.
