It’s hard to believe that we’re practically into the middle of May and we are talking about freezing temperatures and frost. Before you panic, note that this will not be a widespread frost event that will take place overnight. A couple of things have to come together and if they do they will not likely happen in the Quad Cities and points southward.
Strong northwest winds that have been blowing today will likely subside quite a bit overnight. I still think wind will stay between 5 to 10 miles per hour tonight along and south of I-80, which is crucial. There is a better chance that at least briefly the wind will calm north of the Quad Cities under clear skies allowing for patchy frost to develop. I think it’s safe to say that if you live around the Q.C. and especially north that you should go ahead and take the necessary precautions and cover any outdoor plants that would be vulnerable.
The latest date that we have seen the last freeze in Spring was May 21st in 2002. Our average day for the last freeze is April 20th. I don’t think any mothers will appreciate this on their big day tomorrow!