Weather Focus 3: First Freeze Of The Year Is Right Around The Corner

By Frank Macek

CLEVELAND -- With the coming of Fall, the new season brings our first opportunity for freezing temperatures that can quickly bring an end to the growing season.

According to the National Weather Service office in Cleveland, most areas in northern Ohio will see their first 32 degree temperature at night by mid-October.

As you might guess, Lake Erie is a huge influence over the lakeshore counties acting as a blanket that insulates us from colder weather for longer into October than areas away from the lake.

Outlying areas can expect to see temperatures drop at night into the 30s during the first week of October and gradually sneak northward by the middle part of the month.

This occurs because the lake is warmer than the land temperature.

On average, Cleveland will not see its first 32 degree temperature until October 29th.

In comparison, Warren in Trumbull County usually records a freezing temperature by October 5th, Coshocton on October 8th, Ashland on October 11th and Chardon on October 14th

So keep in mind the nights will soon get chillier thanks to less daytime sunlight and longer nighttime hours.

And remember, the best chance of frost occurs on clear nights when winds are light to non-existent. When a frost advisory is issued, you should take steps to protect any outdoors plants whose life you wish to extend as long as possible.
WKYC.COM ON-LINE EXTRA

*To download a list of the average, first freeze dates for selected cities: CLICK HERE