Brace Yourself, Berkshire County: Frost Advisory Issued for Thursday Morning

A crisp chill is descending upon Berkshire County, prompting a Frost Advisory from the National Weather Service. Residents are urged to prepare for unusually cold temperatures expected to dip as low as 33 degrees Fahrenheit in some areas during the pre-dawn hours of Thursday, October 16, 2025. This advisory is typically issued when temperatures are forecast to fall between 33 and 36 degrees, creating conditions ripe for light frost formation, which can be detrimental to delicate vegetation.

The advisory is specifically in effect from 1 AM EDT to 9 AM EDT on Thursday, covering the entire Berkshire County region.

While 33 degrees might not sound like a deep freeze, even a light frost can cause significant damage to sensitive outdoor plants, particularly annuals, vegetables, and new plantings that haven't been hardened off for colder weather. The clear skies and still air often associated with these cold fronts allow for maximum radiative cooling, making the ground and plant surfaces even colder than the ambient air temperature.

Gardening enthusiasts and homeowners with vulnerable landscaping are strongly encouraged to take proactive measures.

Protecting your plants is crucial: consider covering them with sheets, blankets, or even an overturned bucket. For potted plants, bringing them indoors or moving them to a sheltered location like a garage or porch can make all the difference. While the advisory primarily focuses on plant protection, it's also a good reminder for anyone with outdoor water lines, though temperatures are not expected to be low enough for bursting pipes.

Still, securing outdoor hoses and ensuring proper drainage for sprinkler systems is always a wise late-fall practice.

Beyond your garden, this advisory serves as a gentle nudge to transition towards cooler weather readiness. Expect to feel the bite in the air during your early morning commute or dog walk.

Dressing in layers and being mindful of the sudden temperature drop can help you stay comfortable and safe. While this is not a severe weather event, it marks a significant shift as we head deeper into the autumn season, reminding us that winter isn't too far behind. Stay informed by monitoring local weather forecasts and take the necessary steps to safeguard your plants and prepare for the chill.