It has been a roller coaster across the state lately in the temperatures department. Sunday saw record breaking temperatures with some areas getting to the low 90s (not to mention a whopping 97° in Fargo, North Dakota!) Things are finally expected to begin moderating back to normal levels, including the first widespread frost-to-hard freeze on Friday.

A cold front will move into the region Thursday night, ushering in with it colder air for the day Friday. Low temperatures on Thursday night will be chilly, in the mid-to-upper 30s, but not enough to begin worrying about a frost – especially with cloud cover and gusty winds around the area during this time frame. However, with the cold air Friday and clear skies – a widespread frost will be seen across much of the state with the potential for a freeze in the north (even a hard freeze in northeastern Iowa).

As noted, this would be the first 32° frost of the season. Typically we see the first 32° frost by late September to early October – so only slightly later than the 1980-2010 historical averages.

We will likely see headlines for frost come out later this week. Be prepared to protect sensitive vegetation and take other appropriate precautions. Stay tuned to the Iowa Weather Network for the latest information!